With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, there has been an increase in the cases of gender-based violence. Due to the pandemic, a lot of people have lost their jobs or have been forced to work from home. It is not easy to get accustomed to this new normal way of life. A lot of people are undergoing depression, which a few of them are taking out on their loved ones at home. Although both men and women suffer violence, in most cases, it is meted on the female gender.
What Are The Causes Of Gender-Based Violence Against Women?
1. Harmful Gender Tendencies
In most societies, men are acceptably perceived to be aggressive, dominant, and controlling. Women are supposed to be submissive and subservient and should accord men respect as they are the sole providers. These gender stereotypes are used to justify violence against women. These tendencies promote vices such as forced and early marriages, FGM, and other negative notions on sexuality and virginity.
2. Drugs and Alcohol abuse
Drugs and alcoholism is another vice that heavily contributes to violence at homes. If you realize your partner is abusing drugs and alcohol, it is better to seek help early. Look for an expert who will assist you with how to deal with an alcoholic husband early to avoid instances of abuse when it gets out of hand.
3. Poverty and Hunger
Lack of food and money increases tensions in most families. Because of gender stereotypes, men are perceived to be sole providers. When he cannot adequately meet the needs of his family, he can vent out his frustrations to the wife or children. Additionally, in some cultures, families resort to early marriages of their daughters in exchange for financial gains in the form of dowry.
What Are The Effects Of Gender-Based Violence?
1. The effects of gender-based violence are not only felt by the victim, but it burdens the whole society.
2. Gender-based violence affects children adversely. Children who witness the abuse of their loved ones suffer irreparable emotional damage. When families break due to the vice, poverty sets in and the needs of these children are not adequately fulfilled.
3. Victims of the GBV are left with psychological scars that take long or never to heal. The victims may vent their frustrations to the children or people close to them which causes mental and emotional abuse to children. Additionally, as the children witness violence, they may adapt the vice as a conflict resolution mechanism up until their adulthood.
How to Stop Gender-based Violence
1. Supporting Women in Civil Societies-Funding women actively involved in civil societies can help them reach out to other women to recognize their rights
2. Supporting gender-based violence victims- People who have been abused need professional help to overcome trauma and embrace life positively
3. Building systems to help overcome GBV- There are numerous ways of addressing and creating awareness for gender-based violence. For instance, training counsellors in the societies, in health care facilities, and putting laws in place.
Although a lot has been done to address GBV, it still continues to affect a lot of women and children globally. Creating awareness and educating all members of society can help alleviate the vice greatly.
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