Examining gendered perspectives of university students on interpersonal partner violence

Abstract

Interpersonal partner violence (IPV) is the most significant form of violence affecting individuals across all spheres of society. IPV is a form of human rights violation and a major public concern which worsens challenges to health and social development. It is a disturbing issue within higher institutions of learning in South Africa; this is brought by the alarming cases of abuse among university students. The aim of the study was to examine the gendered perspectives of university students on Interpersonal partner violence at the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. The study employed a qualitative approach that used exploratory research design. Twelve participants between the ages of 23-40 years were recruited to participate in this study. For data collection, two focus group discussions were conducted using two self-tailored vignettes. The focus group discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed by the researcher manually. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data set grounded on theoretical frameworks, namely Intersectionality and Ecological model. The themes that emerged from the study highlight understanding IPV, lack of trust in law enforcement, institution and friends, and support system for victims of abuse. Other themes include mental health and academic performance, intergenerational transmission of violence, and traditional masculinity and power dynamics. This study recommends comprehensive support services for students who experience IPV, which include counselling, advocacy, and therapeutic interventions for students with history or exposure to IPV. These support services should be sensitive to gender and meet the needs of students. Recommending implementation of awareness campaigns that challenges the discourse around IPV, and which foster reporting and disclosure for IPV survivors. Keywords: Gender-based violence, Interpersonal partner violence, University students, Intersectionality, Ecological model.