Perceptions Of Men Experiencing Gender Based Violence In Oshana Region, Namibia

ABSTRACT Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a major public health and human rights problem involving all ages and sexes throughout the world. However, the manifestations of GBV among men often go undetected and a large number of men continue living through repeated abuse and assault without any recognition of their ordeal or adequate provision for care or support. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the perceptions of GBV by men in the Oshana Region, Namibia. The study adopted a qualitative research approach of both descriptive and exploratory research designs to collect data from fifteen (15) participants who were selected through the convenience sampling method at the Oshakati Women and Child Protection Unit. The study sought to achieve the following objectives: (a) To identify the socio-demographic characteristics of men who are victims of gender-based violence in Oshana Region; (b) To explore and describe the perceptions of gender-based violence by men in Oshana Region; (c) To determine the possible causes of gender-based violence among men in Oshana Region; and (d) To explore remedial measures in combating gender-based violence among men in Oshana Region. Ethical clearance was obtained from the relevant authorities before the study. The findings revealed several socio-demographic characteristics of men who are victims of GBV, such as levels of education, religious beliefs, types of relationships between couples and age differences. The findings highlighted that perceptions of GBV among men are influenced by high levels of stigma, patriarchal domination beliefs, embarrassment and culture. Furthermore, this study found that the main causes of GBV among men are: unequal power sharing, alcohol, unemployment, lack of awareness of men’s right and income disparity. Based on the findings, the study recommended that the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare should have rehabilitation centers for the male victims of GBV and train more social workers specifically on GBV. The study also recommended that Ministry of Justice should strengthen legal and policy framework as part of preventive and response to GBV among men. Moreover, the study recommended that family members need to be educated on handling issues regarding GBV among men and Ministry of Safety and Security should conduct in-service training to all police officers on responses to violence against men.