Young Black South African women’s experiences of shame in relation to intimate partner violence and support-seeking

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) remains a pervasive issue in South Africa, with young Black women often facing significant barriers when seeking support. Among these barriers, shame plays a complex and underexplored role, influencing decisions to disclose abuse or seek help. This study examines the experiences of shame among young Black South African women who have endured IPV, focusing on the ways in which shame manifests, how it shapes their interactions with support systems, and the broader societal norms that contribute to their silence. Using a feminist and social constructionist approach, this qualitative study employed semi- structured interviews with university students who have experienced IPV. Reflective thematic analysis is used to explore participants' narratives, paying particular attention to how power, gender norms, and cultural dynamics shape their experiences. The findings reveal that shame plays a central role in shaping young Black South African women's experiences of intimate partner violence (IPV) and their ability to seek support. Participants reported various forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, and sexual violence, often leading to trauma-related symptoms such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Shame emerged as a major barrier to help-seeking, linked to self-blame, fear of judgment, and cultural expectations that normalize IPV or discourage disclosure. Family histories, community norms, and religious beliefs influenced participants' perceptions of victimhood and their reluctance to seek formal support. Despite these barriers, the study also found pathways to empowerment and healing, with participants expressing a desire to reclaim their narratives, process their trauma, and support others facing similar struggles. By centering women's voices and experiences, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the intersection between shame, IPV, and help-seeking behaviours, offering insights that may inform both community-based and policy-driven responses to IPV