Personal determinants of gender-based violence: a review of intimate partner violence in South Sudan

Abstract

Intimate partner violence is an important health concern and a human rights violation in South Sudan. It is a major form of gender-based violence with serious consequences such as physical injuries, psychological distress, and loss of employability. This study identified personal determinants that perpetuate intimate partner violence in South Sudan. The study focused on the individual factors in the context of Haise’s Social Ecological Model. Literature from South Sudan and relevant contexts was used to provide factual bases for the study. The personal factors identified that influence intimate partner violence include alcohol abuse, young age, witnessing violence in childhood, and having been a victim of child abuse. Intimate partner violence is an important health problem to address to achieve equal gender relations. This is only possible when the root causes or violence determinants are identified, understood, and addressed using evidence-based strategies.