Exploring the Intersection of gender norms, Mental Health, and Sexual Consent, Among Displaced men of Benue state, Nigeria

Background Rape rates in Nigeria’s displaced settlements reach 37–50%, yet little is known about how displaced men’s navigation of consent is shaped by gender norms and mental health. This cross-sectional study aimed to predict male sexual consent behavior by examining its interaction between sociodemographic factors, gender-equitable norms (GEM), mental health, and gender-related training in displaced camps in Nigeria Methods A total of 610 males were randomly sampled from three purposively selected displaced camps. A validated instrument was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, gender-equitable norms (GEM scale), mental health indicators for post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression (PTSD-8 and PHQ-4), as well as sexual consent behavior. Three constructs of sexual consent were assessed: positive attitudes, indirect approaches, and consent norms. Gamma GLM modelling was used to identify significant predictors of each outcome. Interaction effects between GEM and mental health were examined. Results All constructs of sexual consent behaviors were consistently predicted by a longer stay in the camp. Having some form of social and emotional support, such as living with a family or friend, having a partner, or being self-employed, was associated with higher consent outcomes. Gender-equitable norms did not independently predict sexual consent; however, when combined with mental health, which was a strong predictor, they were associated with improved consent behavior. Attending gender-related training was negatively associated with all consent outcomes. Conclusion Sexual consent behaviors among displaced men are driven by an interaction of different constructs beyond gender norms alone. Their social, economic, and psychological factors play an important role in shaping consent behaviors. Current gender trainings may lack contextual relevance and fail to address practical negotiation skills. Interventions must integrate mental health support, empowerment opportunities, and family/community-based approaches to foster healthy consent dynamics in displacement settings.