Psychosocial effects of gender-based violence on women survivors at Shayandima and Itsani villages in the Vhembe District of Limpopo, South Africa

Abstract

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a significant social and health concern that endangers women and undermines their psychosocial wellbeing. It is widely recognised as a global pandemic affecting South Africa at all levels: national, provincial, and local. This study focused on examining the psychosocial effects of gender-based violence on women survivors, with the aim of identifying ways to prevent further victimisation and improve support interventions.The study was conducted among women aged 35–50 years living in the Shayandima and Itsani villages within the Thulamela Local Municipality, in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. A qualitative, exploratory research design was employed, and purposive sampling was used to select 13 participants who had experienced gender-based violence. Data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews guided by an interview schedule, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The study was guided by Feminist Theory, Trauma Theory, and Learned Helplessness Theory, which assisted in explaining the psychosocial impacts of gender-based violence, its contributing factors, and the delays in reporting cases to relevant authorities. Ethical considerations included confidentiality, informed consent, voluntary participation, avoidance of harm, and protection of participants’ rights throughout the study. The findings revealed that gender-based violence resulted in multiple psychosocial effects, including emotional distress, low self-esteem, social isolation, fear, psychological trauma, and feelings of neglect by service providers following abuse. Participants further highlighted the need for harsher penalties for offenders, increased community awareness, and improved education programmes addressing gender-based violence and its psychosocial consequences.This study contributes to the field of Social Work by providing context-specific insights into the psychosocial experiences of women survivors of gender-based violence in rural communities. The findings offer practical recommendations for strengthening support services, enhancing intervention strategies, and preventing re-victimisation among affected women.