Patriarchal influence on HIV transmission among women in abusive heterosexual relationships in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
Loading...
Date
2023
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Zululand
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the role of patriarchy in the spread of HIV among women in Esikhawini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Patriarchy is considered as a social system that grants men primary power and predominance in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property. Some patriarchal societies are also patrilineal, meaning that property and titles are inherited by the male lineage. This study was guided by three research objectives namely: understanding women's experiences related to HIV transmission, identifying challenges arising from patriarchy, and proposing methods to mitigate its impact on HIV infections in women.
This study is qualitative in nature since it used interpretivism paradigm. Using purposive and snowball sampling, the study focused on ten women experiencing patriarchal abuse in relationships within eSikhaleni township, more particularly at Gobandlovu. Informed by Feminist Theory opposing women abuse, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore participants’ experiences, perceptions, observations and opinions on the patriarchal abuse. The researcher used thematic analysis for data analysis.
Findings reveal a clear understanding of patriarchy among women, which is characterised by male dominance and woman’s diminished power in relationships. Causes of patriarchal abuse included gender inequality, women voicelessness; cultural norms and traditions; ingrained gender roles; and societal expectations. Participants reported various levels of patriarchal abuse including sexual violence, HIV and Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) infection, public degradation, and work restrictions. Notably, societal bias often overlooked reported abuse, leading to psychological issues such as stress and depression for women lacking support.
Organizations like the Tears Foundation and POWA were identified as supportive resources. Recommendations to address issues in patriarchal relationships included regular check-ups, educating men on safe sex practices, free distribution of condoms, and encouraging women to use Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) within 72 hours of potential HIV exposure.
Description
A dissertation submitted to the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts in the Department of Information Studies at the University of Zululand, South Africa [2022].