An exploratory study regarding Gender-Based Violence among men in Alexandra Township, Gauteng Province

Abstract

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a widespread human rights violation affecting individuals worldwide. Although GBV against men is less frequently discussed, it remains a reality. Social media has increased awareness of GBV, especially in South Africa, where it occurs in all nine provinces. This study focused on exploring gender-based violence among men in Alexandra Township, Gauteng Province. It was a qualitative and exploratory study. Data were collected through an interview schedule with participants, using purposive and snowball sampling methods. The main objectives were to explore men's experiences with gender-based violence, to identify the impact of GBV among men, to examine the challenges men face in their experience with GBV and to understand the coping strategies they employ in dealing with GBV. The researcher employed thematic analysis to organize and interpret the data. Findings reveal that men also experience GBV from female partners and face various forms of abuse, including sexual, physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Challenges reported by men include stigma, lack of support from family, community and police. Many men do not report abuse due to fear of shame and judgment. The study recommended that the government and law enforcement agencies should address GBV cases involving men. The government and academic institutions must decolonize the stereotype that men are solely perpetrators of GBV. Policies should be developed to protect and prioritize men as victims. Such measures could help break the shame associated with this issue and challenge cultural norms that force men to endure GBV silently. When support systems are reinforced by law, men might feel more comfortable coming forward when they are abused.