2024
CHALIMBANA UNIVERSITY
STUDENT NAME: Banda Veronica
STUDENT ID NUMBER: 2004131992
CELL PHONE NUMBER: 0979502704
COURSE NAME: Social Studies
COURSE CODE: HSS 2100 CHALIMBANA UN
PROGRAMME: BED- Primary
YEAR OF STUDY: April 2020
STUDENT NAME:
SUBJECT TUTOR: MrsSTUDENT
Njobvu ID NUMBER:
ASSIGNMENT NUMBER: COURSE NAME:
QUESTION: COURSE CODE:
Analyze the causes and effectsPROGRAMME:
of gender based violence.
YEAR OF STUDY:
DUE DATE: 3rd January, 2025
SUBJECT TUTOR:
ASSIGNMENT NUMBER:
QUESTION: analyzes the causes of hydro-ele
and explores strategies to mitigate these challe
future.
DUE DATE:
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue that affects individuals across the globe,
regardless of age, socioeconomic status, or cultural background. It is a manifestation of power
imbalance and discrimination, which perpetuates harm and violence against individuals based on
their gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity (United Nations, 2020). It encompasses a
range of harmful behaviors directed at individuals based on their gender and is deeply rooted in
historical, cultural, and social inequalities. This essay delves into the primary causes of gender-
based violence, such as patriarchal norms, economic inequality, and lack of education, and
examines the effects on individuals and societies, including physical and mental health
consequences, disruption of family structures, and stagnation of societal development. By
understanding these causes and effects, societies can develop more effective strategies to combat
GBV.
There are many causes of Gender-Based Violence, some of the noteable causes of gender based
violence include: To start with Patriarchal Norms and Gender Inequality. One of the primary
causes of GBV is the prevalence of patriarchal norms that perpetuate gender inequality. Societies
that emphasize masculine dominance and feminine subordination create an environment where
GBV is more likely to occur (Heise, 2011). Heise et al (2019) purported that, "patriarchal
societies often place men in positions of power while relegating women to subordinate roles,
creating an imbalance that fosters dominance and control." According to Heise et al (2019),
studies indicate that societal norms which normalize male authority and female submissiveness
are strongly correlated with higher rates of violence against women. These norms can manifest in
various forms, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking.
The second notable cause of gender based violence is economic disparities and dependency.
Economic inequality is another significant factor contributing to GBV. Women who are
financially dependent on their partners are often more vulnerable to abuse, as perpetrators may
exploit this dependency to assert control. Research shows that financial insecurity can exacerbate
power imbalances within relationships, leading to higher incidences of intimate partner violence
(IPV) (Vyas & Watts, 2009). Furthermore, women in poverty may face limited access to
resources and support systems, making it harder to escape abusive situations.This view is also
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supported by Jewkes (2002) who reports that, "economic instability and poverty can exacerbate
GBV, as individuals may feel trapped in abusive relationships due to financial dependence.'
Lack of education and awareness is another cause of gender based violence. A lack of education
often perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes and limits awareness of individual rights. For
instance, in contexts where education is inaccessible, particularly for women and girls, the
subordination of women becomes normalized, and GBV is less likely to be challenged
(UNESCO, 2014). Similarly Ellsberg et al (2015) adds that, "limited education and awareness
about GBV can contribute to its perpetuation, as individuals may not recognize the signs of
abuse or know how to seek help." Education has been shown to play a pivotal role in reducing
GBV by promoting gender equality and empowering individuals to advocate for their rights.
Cultural and Religious Justifications is yet another notable cause of gender based violence. In
some societies, cultural and religious beliefs are used to justify GBV. Practices such as child
marriage, female genital mutilation, and honor killings are often rooted in cultural traditions that
prioritize male dominance and control over women’s bodies and decisions (UNICEF, 2020).
These practices not only perpetuate violence but also hinder progress toward gender equality.
Equally, cultural and social norms that perpetuate gender stereotypes and reinforce power
imbalances contribute to GBV (World Health Organization, 2013).
Moreover, Gender based violence is also caused by weak laws and enforcement. Inadequate laws
and poor enforcement of existing laws can create a culture of impunity, allowing perpetrators to
act with little consequence (United Nations, 2020).
The following are some of the effects of gender based violence:
GBV has severe physical and mental health repercussions for victims. GBV can result in
physical harm, including bruises, broken bones, and internal injuries (World Health
Organization, 2013, p. 23). Further, GBV may cause sexual and reproductive health problems.
According to Jewkes (2002), survivors may experience sexual dysfunction, unwanted
pregnancies, and reproductive tract infections. Again, GBV may result in mental health issues:
GBV can lead to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and even suicidal
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tendencies (Krug et al., 2002, p. 89). Physically, survivors may experience injuries, chronic pain,
or disabilities resulting from violence. Emotional trauma: Survivors may experience feelings of
shame, guilt, fear, and low self-esteem (Heise, 2011, p. 12). Gender Based Violence often leads
to conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal
ideation (World Health Organization [WHO], 2021). Women who experience IPV are also at a
higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
Additionally, Gender-based violence disrupts family dynamics, often leading to broken families
and long-term trauma for children. Children who witness violence in their homes are more likely
to experience emotional distress, perform poorly in school, and perpetuate cycles of violence in
adulthood (McTavish et al., 2016). The intergenerational transmission of trauma highlights the
far-reaching consequences of GBV on societal well-being.
Equally, Gender based violence impact Economic and Societal Development.The economic
impact of GBV is significant, as it reduces productivity and strains healthcare and legal systems.
Survivors may face barriers to education and employment, limiting their ability to contribute to
societal progress. Equally, Jewkes (2002) purports that, “survivors may become financially
dependent on their abusers, making it difficult to leave the relationship.” The World Bank
(2019) estimates that violence against women costs some countries up to 3.7% of their GDP
annually due to lost productivity and healthcare expenses. Similarly, gender based violence can
cause social isolation. According to Ellsberg et al (2015), “GBV can lead to social exclusion,
stigma, and isolation from family, friends, and community.”
Other notable effect of gender based violence is that it can lead to loss of education and
employment opportunities. As, notated by Krug et al (2002), “GBV can disrupt education and
career advancement, perpetuating poverty and inequality.”
Moreover, gender based violence can lead to strained relationships. According to Heise (2011),
GBV can damage relationships with family, friends, and children, leading to long-term
emotional distress.
Further, GBV reinforces systemic gender inequalities by discouraging women from participating
fully in public life. Fear of violence can prevent women from pursuing education, employment,
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or leadership roles, thereby perpetuating cycles of inequality. This not only hinders individual
empowerment but also stifles societal growth by excluding diverse perspectives from decision-
making processes (UN Women, 2021).
Again, Gender based violence impact on children and families. GBV can have a devastating
impact on children and families, leading to intergenerational trauma and perpetuating cycles of
violence (Heise, 2011). Also, Gender based violence has community and societal consequences.
According to the United Nations (2020) GBV can undermine community and social cohesion,
perpetuating a culture of fear and violence.
Also, gender based violence can increased risk of revictimization, that is survivors of GBV may
be at increased risk of revictimization, as they may be more vulnerable to future abuse (Krug et
al., 2002, p. 92).
And finally, gender based violence can increase the perpetuation of harmful gender norms.
According to the United Nations (2020), GBV can perpetuate harmful gender norms, making it
challenging to achieve gender equality and social justice.
In conclusion, Gender-based violence is a complex issue rooted in societal, economic, and
cultural factors and it requires a multifaceted approach to prevention and intervention.
Patriarchal norms, economic dependency, and lack of education are among the key drivers of
GBV, while its effects are far-reaching, impacting individuals, families, and entire societies.
Addressing GBV requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, economic
empowerment, and the dismantling of harmful cultural norms. By prioritizing gender equality
and promoting awareness, societies can take meaningful steps toward eradicating this pervasive
issue.
REFERENCES
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