Small small quarrels bring about happiness or love in the relationships’: Exploring community perceptions and gendered norms contributing to male perpetrated intimate partner violence in the Central Region of Ghana.
Outcomes: Gender‑Based Violence
View SourceKey Social Norms Take-aways Community norms often uphold male authority and justify IPV. However, resistance from individuals and local leaders shows that change is possible. Interventions should support these shifts by promoting dialogue and empowering women.
Objectives This study explored how gender norms and community attitudes in Ghana’s Central Region contribute to male-perpetrated intimate partner violence (IPV), and how some individuals and communities challenge or resist these norms.
Methods The qualitative research was part of a baseline assessment for a community-randomized controlled trial of the Rural Response System (RRS). Researchers conducted 40 in-depth interviews and 12 focus group discussions with IPV survivors, perpetrators, community members, and trained community volunteers (COMBATs). Data were analyzed using thematic and discourse analysis.
Intervention Details The RRS intervention uses Community-Based Action Teams (COMBATs) to raise awareness about IPV, support survivors, and promote gender-equitable norms through community engagement and dialogue.
Results IPV—including physical, financial, verbal, and sexual abuse—was commonly reported and often seen as justified when women failed to meet gendered expectations. Some women accepted violence as punishment, while others resisted. Alcohol abuse and economic stress were also linked to IPV. However, some community members and leaders challenged these norms and publicly opposed IPV.
Conclusions IPV in the Central Region of Ghana is rooted in patriarchal norms but varies in expression and response. Interventions must support both social norm change and women’s agency.
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