Experiences of Gender-Based Violence victims during COVID-19 lockdown in the Selected Region F of Gauteng Province, South Africa

In South Africa, Gender-Based Violence is a major and persistent problem that touches almost every aspect of daily life. Systematic and deeply ingrained in South African institutions, cultures, and traditions, Gender-Based Violence, which disproportionately affects women and girls, is made worse by gender stereotypes and biases. The reputation of South Africa as one of the most dangerous countries for women is questionable. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of Gender-Based Violence victims during COVID-19 lockdown in the selected Region F of Gauteng Province. The study adopted a qualitative approach and interpretative phenomenological design targeting women aged between of 18 to 49 years who were victims of Gender-Based Violence during COVID-19 lockdown. Face-to-face unstructured interviews were conducted by applying one central question. The interviews were recorded using an audiotape and transcribed verbatim. The study used a non-probability snowball sampling to identify the participants until data saturation was attained with 12 participants. The criterion for selecting the participants was based on the participants’ quality and characteristics that are of interest to the researcher, which is the Gender-Based Violence victims during COVID-19 lockdown. The center and participants were sampled through the department of social development database and the region was selected through crime statistics report from South African Police Service. The data was analyzed through thematic analysis. The researcher observed ethical protocols throughout the study. The results indicate that the victims of Gender-Based Violence during COVID-19 lockdown faced challenges that included lack of access to transport, lack of financial resources, poverty, and unemployment, alcohol and drug abuse and lack of welfare services which led to more suicidal attempts. All necessary trustworthiness were taken to guarantee the validity of the results. Based on the research's findings, recommendations were made.

Author dc:creator

• Mbokodo, Carol

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Mudau, A. G.
• Lebese, R. T.

• Abuse
• COVID-19
• Gender-Based Violence

Statement dc:rights

• University of Venda

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

http://univendspace.univen.ac.za/handle/123456789/2771

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:univendspace.univen.ac.za:123456789/2771