Unravelling Psychological Ramifications of Gender-Based Violence against Male Lecturers in Rural Universities of Zimbabwe

Unravelling Psychological Ramifications of Gender-Based Violence against Male Lecturers in Rural Universities of Zimbabwe

Munyaradzi Chidarikire & Juliet Kamwendo

Issue: Vol.6 No.7 Article 10 pp.1062 – 1078
DOI: https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.20256710 | Published online 18th June, 2025

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ABSTRACT

This paper explored the psychological consequences of gender-based violence against male lecturers in rural Universities in Zimbabwe. Gender-based violence is a deeply rooted issue in Zimbabwe, affecting both women and male lecturers. Unfortunately, the gender-based violence against males especially university lecturers is unreported or underreported. Using a qualitative approach, the study employed purposive sampling to select 16 participants based on criteria such as gender, age, expertise, and experiences related to the topic. Data was collected through focus group discussions and interviews, while content thematic analysis was used for data analysis. One of the findings of this study indicated that a significant number of Zimbabwean male lecturers in rural Universities of Zimbabwe are experiencing gender-based violence, resulting in various problems, including stress. Consequently, the participants of the study recommended that rural male lecturers should seek counselling to address the psychological impact of gender-based violence on their overall well-being. Through examining the psychological consequences of GBV against men, this study seeks to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the effects of gender-based violence on individuals, regardless of their gender. The findings of this research are expected to inform the development of targeted interventions and support services that address the specific needs of male survivors of GBV in rural Zimbabwe.

Keywords: Gender-Based Violence, Male Lecturers, Psychological Consequences, Rural Areas, Zimbabwe

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ABOUT AUTHOR(S)

Dr. Munyaradzi Chidarikire is an academic in the Department of Education at the University of the Free State in South Africa. He specializes in Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Health Life Skills, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being in education. Dr. Chidarikire is a former post doctoral research fellow at University of KwaZulu Natal, in South Africa. He holds a PhD in Educational Psychology from the University of the Free State, where he developed innovative approaches to learning and psychological support. Dr. Chidarikire also earned a Master’s degree (2.1) in Educational Psychology from Great Zimbabwe University in Zimbabwe. He was recognized as the best student at Bachelor of Honours degree in Educational Psychology at Great Zimbabwe University. His academic accolades include a Bachelor of Honours degree in Educational Psychology which was awarded with first-class honors degree (Cum Laudie) for outstanding achievement. He also holds a Bachelor of Honours degree in Counseling (2:1) and a Diploma in Further Education and Training, where he was honored as the best student. Additionally, he has completed certificate in Further Education and Training (Masvingo Polytechnic College, Zimbabwe) and Certificate in HIV and AIDS (UNISA). Dr. Chidarikire has received three University book prizes for his exceptional performance, including recognition as the best student at Great Zimbabwe University and at Masvingo Polytechnic College. He has published over 35 academic articles and contributed more than 20 book chapters. Dr. Chidarikire has also presented at over 15 local and international conferences, sharing his expertise in educational psychology and counseling.

Dr. Juliet Kamwendo is a lecturer and Acting Programme Director for Gender Studies in Centre for Gender and Africa studies in the University of the Free State. Prior to joining the university of the Free State, Dr Kamwendo has served as a post-doctoral research fellow in the University of KwaZulu-Natal, based at Edgewood School of Education. In 2021, Dr Kamwendo was appointed a team leader for the Project renewal undertaken at UKZN School of Arts and then as a coordinator in the college of Humanities responsible for rolling out the Post graduate diploma in Africa’s indigenous knowledge systems (IKS). In the pursuit for her interest in interdisciplinary and innovative research, Dr Kamwendo’ PhD thesis pulled together issues of gender, language and IKS. This makes her an expert in both areas of Gender and African studies. Evident to innovative claims, Dr Kamwendo has received a number of awards both in South Africa and beyond for instance the National Research Fund(NRF); the Laurette award by CODESRIA on proposal writing in 2015 as well as a Grant for the provision of user-friendly toilets in community secondary schools in Malawi through a Gender Design in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM), an initiative in Low- and Middle-income countries by University of Carleton of Canada. Dr Kamwendo has published in areas of gender and indigenous knowledge systems in accredited journals as well as presenting papers at both local and international conferences. Dr Kamwendo is a passionate, team player, goal oriented and open minded individual whose ambitions are to keep improving and developing an academic niche especially on areas of gender research.

TO CITE ARTICLE

Chidarikire,Munyaradzi and Juliet Kamwendo. “Unravelling Psychological Ramifications of Gender-Based Violence against Male Lecturers in Rural Universities of Zimbabwe,” E-Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences 6, no.7 (2025): 1062 – 1078. https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.20256710