The impact of gender-based violence on women's health in rural communities of Collins Chabane Municipality, Limpopo Province

Gender-based violence is a serious global issue that affects women of all races, colors, and social statuses. It has negative health consequences for survivors and is perpetuated by culture, patriarchy, and tradition. In South Africa, it is a significant social and public health problem that affects women, families, and society as a whole. The effects of violence against women extend beyond survivors, causing indirect trauma to families. This study aimed to explore the health effects of gender-based violence on women who have experienced different types of violence in the Collins Chabane Municipality, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province. The study used a qualitative research approach, guided by exploratory and descriptive designs. The participants were women aged between 18 and 59, who live in Mulenzhe communities and have experienced gender-based violence. The study involved 20 women who were sampled through purposive sampling. Data was collected through individual semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Trustworthiness considered to measure the degree of confidence in data, through interpretation and method used to ensure the quality of a study. Ethical considerations were taken into account due to the sensitive nature of the research. The study findings show that women who experience gender-based violence are more likely to contract communicable diseases like HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections. Mental health problems, including post-traumatic stress, stroke, heart disease, and hypertension, were also identified as outcomes of gender-based violence Contributory factors are found to be the pushing factors to GBV. unemployment plays an important role as women stay in abusive relationships because of no means of living. Empowerment of women through awareness campaign is very important as women will understand how GBV affects their health wellbeing

Author dc:creator

• Mabasa, Casey Joyce

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Manganye, B. S.
• Makhado, L.

• Gender-based violence
• Women
• Victimization
• Status
• Abuse

Statement dc:rights

• University of Venda

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

http://univendspace.univen.ac.za/handle/123456789/2766

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:univendspace.univen.ac.za:123456789/2766