FACTORS INFLUENCING MALES BEHAVIOUR IN SEEKING GENDER BASED VIOLENCE SERVICES AT THE RECOVERY CENTRE IN JOOTRH KISUMU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Background: The most common, least acknowledged human rights violation in the world is gender-based violence. Violence not only injures people but also raises their long-term risk of a number of other health issues, including depression, drug and alcohol abuse, physical impairment, and chronic pain. Gender-based violence affects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 males worldwide (WHO, 2020). Men are generally perceived as being less affected by this type of violence (John & Jonathan, 2023). Men, as much as women are affected by gender-based violence. Study purpose: The aim of this study was to fill the gap of limited research on GBV against the men and boys. This study utilized cross sectional research design. The general objective is to identify the factors influencing Gender Based Violence among males seeking services in Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kisumu County, Kenya. Ethical considerations were met by ensuring; Informed consent, Anonymity and Confidentiality. Methodology used is census method. Study results: The study found that men of the youth age (20 to 40), married, living with spouse and employed had most of them experiencing the various forms of GBV e.g. physical, sexual and emotional. The study also found that there was underreporting of cases of GBV by men due to strong cultural stereotypes and weak protection of men from law enforcement. Benefits of study: This evidence was necessary for creating interventions to curb GBV against men, and may also design programs aimed to create awareness and sensitization among men.