Unpacking the Nuances Behind One-Sided Gendered Violence: A Case Study of The King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa

Abstract

South Africa grapples with a pervasive GBV crisis evident in femicide, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault statistics. Gender-based violence is defined as the human-rights violation that occurs globally, in both developing and developed countries, irrespective of culture, socio-economic class or religion and it varies in frequency, forms and extent from country to country. While GBV has long been acknowledged as a pervasive issue impacting women in South Africa, recent research reveals a less recognised aspect men also experience significant abuse, often concealed by silence and stigma. In South Africa, a country with high rates of violence, this study explores the intricate interactions between cultural norms, societal expectations, and the frequency of gender-based violence against men. The Person-In-Environment theory was used in semi-structured interviews with 12 participants as part of the study's qualitative methodology. The study revealed that GBV against men is a significant yet often invisible problem. They further revealed how societal norms such as toxic masculinity, silence surrounding male vulnerability and cultural justifications contributed the occurrence and under-reporting of GBV against men as well as discouraged them from seeking help. Additionally, the findings shaded light on the specific barriers men encounter in accessing support services, highlighting the need for gender inclusive interventions.