“We Report to Traditional Leaders, but Patriarchy Means We Rarely Win the Case”: Gender-Based Violence and Women’s Wellness in Rural South Africa

Casey Joyce Mabasa, Gudani Goodman Mukoma and Bumani Solomon Manganye ()
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Casey Joyce Mabasa: Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
Gudani Goodman Mukoma: Department of Biokinetics, Recreation and Sports Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
Bumani Solomon Manganye: Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 6, 1-13

Abstract: Background: Gender-based violence has serious health impacts on survivors and is perpetuated by cultural norms, patriarchy, and traditional values. This study explored women’s (survivors) views, attitudes and the impact of gender-based violence on their health in a selected rural village within the Collins Chabane Municipality, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used, involving 20 women aged 18 to 59. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted, and data were analysed thematically using ATLAS.ti 8, based on Braun and Clarke’s six-step framework. Ethical considerations were prioritised due to the sensitive nature of the research. Results: The results revealed that women in the Collins Chabane Municipality experience multiple forms of GBV, including physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse, which severely impacts their mental and physical health. Additionally, socioeconomic factors like unemployment and financial dependence exacerbate their vulnerability, making it difficult to escape abusive relationships. Conclusions: Cultural norms, patriarchal beliefs, and limited community support intersect to shape women’s experiences and responses to abuse.

Keywords: gender-based violence; women’s health; health effects; mental health; empowerment; South Africa (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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