Factors associated with inequitable gender beliefs and subjective norms among men in Gauteng

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2018-11

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Mokotla, Shoeshoe

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Abstract

Background: Inequitable gender beliefs are associated with perpetration of all forms of gender-based violence and sexual risk behaviour. In South Africa, there is a growing body of literature showing an association between men’s gender inequitable beliefs and gender subjective norms and factors associated with them. This study engages more on explaining these associations in terms of broader gender and hegemonic masculinity concepts. This lens can us help understand factors associated with men’s gender inequitable beliefs and gender subjective norms to enable the development of more effective interventions. Aim: To describe factors associated with men’s gender inequitable beliefs and subjective norms of gender roles and norms in Gauteng and factors associated with them. Design: Secondary data analysis using a cross-sectional household study with a two- stage random sample of men. Methods: This study included 488 South African men aged 18 years and above who completed a questionnaire in the primary study and had available data for the key variables being studied. The Gender Equitable Men’s (GEM) scale was used to measure gender inequitable beliefs and gender inequitable subjective norms. Scores were obtained by summing responses to items and later categorised. Logistic regression models were built to identify socio demographic and behavioural factors associated with gender inequitable beliefs and subjective norms of gender roles and norms. Results: Of the 488 men in the study, 51.24% of men expressed inequitable gender beliefs 45.54% men expressed inequitable gender subjective norms. Factors increasing risk for expressing inequitable gender beliefs included attaining lower levels of education (61.76% vs 38.2% p=0.05 of men with inequitable gender beliefs had lower levels of educations), having 2 or more sexual partners (57.29% vs 42.71% p=0.01 men with inequitable gender beliefs had multiple partners) and witnessing above of mother (67.50% vs 32.50% p=0.01 with inequitable gender beliefs had witnessed mother abuse). Factors increasing risk for expressing subjective gender norms included lower level of education (24.19% vs 75.81% p=0.001 with inequitable gender subjective norms had attained lower levels of education). ix Conclusions: This study shows that education level, number of sexual partners and witnessing abuse of mother and other socio-demographic characteristics play a role in men’s gender beliefs and their perceptions of gender norms. Awareness of GBV laws was not associated with progressive or equitable gender beliefs or perceptions. The findings show the need for evidence based and effective programmes that will transform men’s gender inequitable beliefs and gender subjective norms.

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A research report submitted to the School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Public Health, November 2018

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