Violence against young females in South Africa: An analysis of the current prevalence and previous levels of youth mortality

Abstract

Violence against females, in its many forms, is a recognized social and public health concern. In South Africa, studies have examined the consequences (HIV transmission) and social causes (patriarchal practices) of violence against females. This study contributes to this body of knowledge by examining the national prevalence of violence as reported by females and the national mortality rates of females due to assault—which is an aggressive act perpetrated by another person. The analysis is based on the nationally representative Victims of Crime Survey (2010) and Death Notification Form data. Rates, proportions, and logistic regression producing odds ratios are generated. The results show that more physical than sexual assaults are reported by young females in the country. Both types of assault are reportedly higher among females with a secondary education. Female mortality due to assault increased between 1997 and 2009, and the odds of a female dying from assault are higher than that of a male. Some practical measures are proposed to reduce the prevalence of female abuse and resulting mortality among young South African females.