Experiences and perceptions of domestic violence among male victims in Kwekwe

Abstract

The study examined the nature of domestic violence against men in Kwekwe. It focused on the lived experiences among male victims. Particular attention was given to the forms of violence experienced, perceptions of violence held and the coping mechanisms adopted by the male victims. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed to gather required data. These included perusal of court records, tele-observation, questionnaire, in-depth interviews and observation. The study findings confirmed the existence of domestic violence against men both in natural and unnatural forms. Various recommendations were noted and these included the need for incorporation of the rights of men in the constitution, the need for funding of men’s organizations by both government and NGOs and the consideration of such acts as forced sex by wives as punishable offences.