Investigating gender-based violence perpetuated against men: Literature review

Apparently, gender dynamics are experiencing a paradigm shift that incrementally sees men as victims of gender-based violence, a phenomenon largely ignored in academic discourse and policy responses. This is perhaps giving the phenomenon an opportunity to thrive unabetted. Gender-based violence against men is examined in this review of the literature, with an emphasis on intimate relationships where women may be the perpetrators. The study aims to investigate the dynamics surrounding GBV meted out against men, as well as the obstacles they encounter when trying to report abuse and get help. To analyse the body of research on the subject, a qualitative literature review design was used. Academic databases such as Google Scholar, JSTOR, PubMed, ResearchGate, EBSCOhost, and the Walter Sisulu University library database were used to gather pertinent sources. 34 journal articles, 1 chapter, and 1 organizational report, all released between 2018 and 2025, were examined. The study used thematic analysis by reviewing selectedarticles, coding recurring ideas, and group them into themes such as: Norms of masculinity as an obstacle to disclosure; Manifestations of violence against men; Socioeconomic and power imbalance; South African legislative framework (GBV). Results show that societal reactions, social stigma, cultural standards of masculinity, and the South African legal framework (GBV) all play a major role in the under-reporting of violence against men. The review also shows that men are subjected to economic, sexual, psychological, and physical violence, among other forms of abuse. The study is anchored in Hegemonic Masculinity Theory. The study concludes that to create inclusive policies, support services, and interventions that cater to the needs of all victims, regardless of gender, it is crucial to acknowledge men as potential victims of gender-based violence.