mbulelo smpofu
Nompumelelo Mlotshwa
GENDER-BASED violence (GBV) is a kind of violence that is perpetrated on a person because of their gender. It is prevalent in all classes, religions, cultures, countries and societies and it affects millions of individuals around the world.
It occurs in many different forms and the most common are physical, economic, emotional and sexual. However, women seem to experience the worst of it in terms of incidence, harshness and impact.
According to data from the World Health Organisation, one-third of women globally experience violence at least once in their lifetime and that is a significant number.
The act of GBV is normally influenced by the unequal system of patriarchy that governs various facets of our societies and is widely perpetrated by men, who tend to abuse power and control over their victims.
Perpetrators of GBV include family members, intimate partners, friends, strangers or institutions. The groups that are mostly vulnerable to GBV include women, girls, children, people with disabilities and the elderly.
As we observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence towards women and children, we will look at the few common behaviours of the abuser, which include such forms as bullying, verbal, emotional, sexual and economic violations.
In most cases, the only person who is aware that the abuse is happening would be the victim. Sometimes victims of abuse tend to cope by either denying the violation or bonding with the abuser with the hope that their situation will change for the better.
They may also avoid reporting the abuse because they fear retaliation that could worsen things.
How can you spot potential Gender-Based Violence (GBV)?
Some signs and symptoms of GBV range from the obvious to the unnoticeable with no visible signs. It is important for one to be able to tell that they are being violated so they can act before the abuse goes too far.
Sometimes the abuse is disguised as acts of love and some victims may find it difficult to understand that they are being abused and deal with it.
Warning signs
Extreme jealousy and possessiveness occur when a person wants your full attention and time and gets angry and demanding when they do not get the attention. It is unhealthy.
The attempt to isolate the partner from family and friends.
Violation of one’s privacy for example an individual constantly checking up on their partner, goes through the phone, emails and texts, computers, etc.
Disrespect by blaming, shaming, humiliating and criticizing the other person is a tell-tale sign of abuse.
Guilt trapping; the abuser may make you feel responsible for them and their behaviour and will make you feel guilty that you didn’t do what they wanted you to do. May even threaten to harm or alternatively, harm themselves, the children or even pets if you don’t do what they want.
Abusers may also impose a lifestyle, friends, certain conduct and preferences on you while disregarding your opinions, preferences, and relationships. There is generally a lack of interest in what’s important to you.
Sexist jokes are in bad taste especially if they’re demeaning towards women. This also includes sexist behaviour and attitudes such as objectifying women, and looking down on them.
Look at how they treat other women in their lives e.g. mothers, sisters, etc. If they show no respect and are over-controlling, there is reason for one to worry.
If he is moving too fast for you, talking about commitment from the onset, be wary.
If you’re already seeing red flags with someone and they own a weapon e.g. gun, be careful. The presence of a gun in domestic violence situations increases the risk of homicide for women.
In conclusion, it is everyone’s responsibility to cleanse our society of gender-based violence, it has become a pandemic. Let’s get information about gender equality issues and address the many forms of discrimination that women face in their day-to-day lives.
Let’s seek professional help early for prevention, guidance, empowerment and management of GBV. We will then be able to maintain a healthy lifestyle both physically and mentally and improve our mental health status. Let’s all make that a priority. — Kahle Counselling Hub
Online Reporter
