An Assessment of the Prevalence of Gender Based Violence among Pregnant Women in Songea Rural.

Tawete, Elector Albert (2021) An Assessment of the Prevalence of Gender Based Violence among Pregnant Women in Songea Rural. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study assessed the prevalence of gender-based violence among pregnant women in Songea rural. Specifically the study aimed at finding out the major types of GBV, exploring the socio-economic factors of GBV and assessing the major socio-economic effects of GBV among pregnant women. The study employed qualitative approach by using embedded multiple case study design. Relevant data were gathered through interviews, focus group discussions and documentary review. The generated data were subjected to content analysis. The findings revealed that, GBV among pregnant women is an issue, real, persistent and widespread inform of physical, sexual and psychological phenomenon. However, it was noted that, young female living in the study areas are more affected group with indolent behavior of GBV. In addition, the findings noted that, low education of the most community members, low economic status of pregnant women, unplanned pregnant, cheating in marriage and relationship, traditional believes and weak legal framework are among the root causes of GBV. Furthermore, the findings asserted that, family members such as mother in laws, sister in laws, past or current partners and other relatives from husband’s linage are the major perpetrators of GBV among pregnant women as revealed by the study. In addition, the study findings revealed that, prolonged fear and stress, physical injury, emotional trauma, maternal health complications and loss of income are among the effects of GBV to pregnant women. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the government should plan programs of educating communities on the threats of GBV, revive and enforce laws, which restrict the grounds of the occurrence of GBV addressed in this study. Keywords: Prevalence, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Pregnant Women.

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