Causes and effects of gender based violence on women at household level: A case of Masuliita Sub-county

Abstract

This study assessed the causes and effects of Gender Based Violence on women at household level in Masuliita Sub County. This was achieved by examining the major causes, effects and coping mechanisms of women experiencing gender based violence. An exploratory study design was adopted where both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods were applied and a total of 110 women (wives) were subjected to questionnaires and focus group discussion (70 for questionnaires and 40 for 4 Focus group discussions) , 40 men (Husbands) for 4 focus group discussions and 5 Key Informants that comprised of :Community Development Officer, Local Council leaders and Officer–in-Charge, Masuliita Police Post, for interviews, were involved in the study. Data analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) and the thematic content analysis method for quantitative and qualitative data respectively. Results indicated and it was concluded that the causes of Gender Based Violence against women were social cultural, economic and civic in nature. However, cultural beliefs among husbands were cited as dominant causes of Gender Based Violence against women. The cases of gender-based violence against women at household that affected them physically and psychologically were more social, and economic in nature. Physical effects included loss of lives. Owing to that victims of GBV adopted several coping mechanisms. However, many women do not disclose Gender based violence cases not until they get physically injured and report the cases to police or local council authorities for help. It was recommended that the Police and the Local Councils should put facilities in place to help women experiencing Gender Based Violence in the communities. Such facilities should include; counseling centers, funds that will help victims get rehabilitated, and Government should invest in institutions like Police and the judiciary so that victims are assisted.. The community should also establish community social structures such as community groups of both men and women provide a sensitization platform for people to share experiences related GBV and remedies so as to solicit support from fellow community members.