Hegemonic Masculinity as a Contributing Factor Toward Intimate Partner Violence in Contemporary South Africa

Abstract

South Africa is a country that is known for its high levels of violence, ranging from intimate partner violence to xenophobic attacks. Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant problem that profoundly affects the well-being of another partner. IPV is described as abuse within the context of an intimate partner relationship where one partner asserts power and control over the other, and it includes physical, sexual, economic, and psychological abuse (National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Resource Guide 2018, 1). Understanding the factors that play a role in IPV is pivotal. Hegemonic masculinity has been used to explain men’s power over women via submission and the use of violence. Hegemonic masculinities are characterised by attitudes, ideals, interactions, and practices among men that perpetuate inequality, dominance over women, patriarchy, and power over minority groups (Jewkes and Morrell 2012, 2; Jewkes et al. 2015, 98). In this study, comprehensive desktop research was carried out to gather relevant data and themes identified from studies conducted between 2010 and 2018. Analysis showed that the phenomenon of IPV, particularly towards women, is still a major challenge that requires stakeholders to be more responsive to the concerns of women in a global space.