Female perpetuated intimate partner violence and psychological effect among male counterparts in Rukungiri municipality, Uganda

Abstract

The study explored female-perpetuated intimate partner violence and its psychological effects on male counterparts in Rukungiri municipality, Uganda. The purpose of the study was to explore the most prevalent forms of female perpetuated intimate partner violence experienced by men, the psychological effects of intimate partner violence among male counterparts and the establishment of counseling and other interventions that have helped male victims to overcome the psychological effects of intimate partner violence. The research was conducted in three Divisions (Western, Eastern and Southern) in Rukungiri Municipality, southwestern Uganda. Interpretivist perspective research approach was adopted. The target population was 196 respondents including 180 men from household survey in the three divisions in Rukungiri Municipality, 10 members of the clergy, 4 police officers from. 1 probation office and 1 legal expert were also included in the study making a total of 196 respondents. Convenient sampling was employed for household male respondents while Purposive sampling was used to select other participants. Respondents included 44 household males,10 members of the clergy, 4 police officers, 1 probation officer and a legal expert. A qualitative research approach was use and Data was collected using face to face interviews and focus groups, with respondents purposively sampled. Results indicate that forms of intimate partner violence inflicted on men by their partners include: physical, sexual, emotional and economic violence. The study findings indicated that physical violence was the most prevelance among the forms of intimate partner violence inflicted on men by their partners. Furthermore, the psychological effects of intimate partner violence on men include depression, mental instability, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorders, loss of self-esteem and suicide. However, there are several interventions that can help men affected by violence perpetuated by women including treatment and support for survivors, and counseling services. These interventions can enhance psychological wellbeing and also enable individuals to recognize warning signs of IPV. Finally the study recommends that more men who are facing intimate partner violence in their homes be encouraged to seek the services of the organizations and offices that have been designated to support them at the district, police and church. Finally, the study recommends an increase in champions for fighting intimate partner violence against men in the community