The Role of Patriarchy in the Spread of HIV/AIDS Among Women Living in Egobandlovu in Esikhawini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Charles Ntokozo Mthembu; Mbongeni Mfanasibili Shabalala

doi:10.25159/2663-659X/21671

Authors

Charles Ntokozo Mthembu University of Zululand
Mbongeni Mfanasibili Shabalala University of Zululand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-659X/21671

Keywords:

abuse, patriarchy, relationship, condoms, HIV/AIDS, sexual violence

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the role of patriarchy in the spread of HIV and AIDS among women living in Esikhawini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Patriarchy is 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 line. This study was guided by three research objectives, namely, to investigate the experiences of women in the spread of HIV and AIDS through patriarchy, to determine the issues that women face because of patriarchy, and to make recommendations for methods to reduce the impact of HIV and AIDS infections in women because of patriarchy. The study used purposive and snowball sampling that focused on 10 women who had experienced and were still experiencing patriarchal abuse in their relationships. The study was underpinned by the feminist theory and used semi-structured interviews to explore the participants’ experiences, perceptions, observations and opinions regarding the abuse of women in patriarchal relationships. This study analysed its data using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that (1) women had a clear understanding of the term patriarchy; (2) the causes of patriarchal abuse in a relationship included inequality, culture and traditions, gender roles, and societal norms; (3) women undergo psychological problems, such as stress and depression; and (4) there are organisations that support these women. The study made several recommendations for curbing problems experienced by women in patriarchal relationships.

Author Biography

Mbongeni Mfanasibili Shabalala, University of Zululand

Lecturer

Department of Social Work

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