Factors Influencing Gender Based Violence Among Married Women in Rubaga Division, Kampala District.

Abstract

This consists of the objectives and methodology used in the study. The study sought to examine the factors influencing Gender Based Violence among married women in Rubaga division, Kampala district. Objective. To examine the factors influencing Gender Based Violence among married women in Rubaga division, Kampala district. Specific objectives 1. To determine the prevalence of married women suffering Gender Based Violence in Rubaga division, Kampala district. 2. To establish the types of Gender Based Violence suffered by married women in Rubaga division, Kampala district. 3. To assess the level of knowledge on Gender Based Violence among married women in Rubaga division, Kampala district. 4. To examine the influence of women’s economic status on Gender Based Violence in Rubaga division, Kampala district. This was a descriptive cross sectional study. Simple random, purposive sampling techniques or methods for quantitative data and qualitative data respectively; research administered and key informant questionnaires as well as focus group discussions were used to generate and collect qualitative data as well. The study was carried out between June and September, 2014. Results/findings of the study. The study found out that the prevalence of GBV among married women in Rubaga division was 74.9%. The types of GBV experienced by married women include physical and psychological violence 104(38.3%) and also 101(37.3%) had experienced Physical violence alone. This was followed by Emotional and Psychological violence accounting for 29(10.7%) and 19(7%) respectively. The least violence reported to have been encountered by the women were all the above mentioned 7(2.6%) and others 11(4.1%). that other causes represented 78(21.5%), followed by sexual activity 58 (16.0%), then both sexual and economic causes accounted for 42(11.6%). The least mentioned cause of the GBV experienced was that of cultural practices (like FGM, bride price among others). On the other hand, 22(6.1%) reported other reasons such as lack of basic needs, lack of table of money, peer pressure and attitude of their partners as causes of their violence. The study interestingly found out that altogether, socio demographic factors such as economic and sexual activity were the main cause of Gender based violence. Conclusion In conclusion, the prevalence of GBV among married women in Rubaga division, Kampala district is high. The types of GBV suffered by married women are physical, sexual, psychological and emotional abuse. Factors influencing GBV are alcohol and drug abuse, polygamy, attitude towards gender, cultural practices such as FGM, payment of bride price just to mention but a few. Further studies and research should be analytical to provide information on which variables predict GBV among married women. Recommendations There is imperative need for Information, E C messages pertaining to GBV to be demystified (put in simple language for easy understanding and interpretation) since this may help in reducing on myths surrounding cultural practices such as FGM and bride price thus reducing the prevalence of GBV among married women. There is need for community sensitization and education on GBV and its dangers in that the perpetrators are held accountable by the community as well hence social forbearance should be discouraged at all levels. There is also need for more research to be done on the subject of GBV making it more contextual because generalizing national figures does not make and give representative information on GBV.