Trends and patterns of gender-based violence and help-seeking behaviour in Zambia: A case of old market compound of Lukulu District

Abstract

This study established the trends and patterns of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Old Market Compound of Lukulu District of Zambia. Specifically, the study investigated the existence and prevalence, causes and effects, and help seeking behaviour. Both quantitative and qualitative techniques were used in collecting data. Purposive and interval sampling methods were used to select respondents for the study. Focus Group Discussions provided qualitative data on experiences of GBV, types and solutions. Structured Questionnaires were administered to 100 respondents. Qualitative data were analysed thematically while quantitative data was analysed using MS Access, MS Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings demonstrated that Gender-Based Violence like in any other district in Zambia exists in Lukulu. Its major causes are environmental, socioeconomic and cultural practices. The established trends and patterns show that physical GBV had the highest observable effects while emotional has the most dehumanizing effect and longest in terms of experience, depending on one’s resilience. Sexual violence was noted to have long lasting impact and led to unwanted pregnancies, abortions, maternal mortality, school drop-out, STI and HIV and AIDS infections. It was noted that the younger generation suffered more physical and sexual violence but reduced with increase in age, while emotional violence increased with increase in age. It was also noted that physical (76%) and emotional (18%) violence are more common than sexual (6%) violence, but have not been receiving much attention as compared to sexual violence. Emotional and sexual violence have psychological effects on the victim which lead to depression and trauma if not well managed. The study has demonstrated that the experience of Gender-Based Violence is higher among women of reproductive age especially those who are in a union of marriage with a man who abuses alcohol and drugs. The study also realised that there is a strong relationship between GBV and background characteristics. When the background characteristics are high or favourable GBV will be low. However, it was also noted that the background characteristics are influenced by culture. The study has revealed that help seeking behaviour among GBV victims, especially among men was negative. Therefore, the study proposed to integrate GBV issues in both formal and informal education and practices by providing primary institutions with knowledge and skills to prevent GBV at grass root level.