Key Social Norms Take-aways This study demonstrates that school- and family-based interventions can contribute to the prevention of intimate partner violence among adolescents by addressing the broader social norms that underpin gender inequality and the normalization of violence. Findings suggest that improving communication, promoting gender-equitable attitudes, and challenging the acceptance of corporal punishment and other forms of violence can lead to modest shifts in behavior and beliefs. The intervention was most effective where multiple layers of influence—school environment, curriculum, teacher behavior, and caregiver relationships—were addressed in tandem.
Objectives The study aimed to develop and evaluate a multi-faceted intervention to prevent intimate partner violence among Grade 8 students in South Africa by addressing risk factors at school, family, and individual levels. The evaluation sought to determine whether the intervention improved knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and school climate in ways that reduce violence.
Methods A three-arm cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted in 24 high schools in Gauteng Province. Schools were randomly assigned to either a control group, a school-only intervention group, or a combined school and family intervention group. Quantitative data were collected at baseline, and at 6-, 12-, and 18-month follow-ups from learners, teachers, and caregivers. Qualitative research complemented survey data, and an economic costing evaluation was also undertaken.
Intervention Details The school intervention included curriculum support through a revised Grade 8 life orientation manual addressing gender and violence, training for teachers, positive discipline training for staff, and formation of student clubs. The family intervention was delivered as a workshop-based programme over four day-long sessions for caregivers and their adolescents. These sessions aimed to improve parenting skills, communication, and understanding of adolescent development and relationships.
Results While no statistically significant reduction in physical or sexual intimate partner violence was found, there were promising shifts in gender-equitable attitudes and improved communication between adolescents and caregivers, especially in the combined intervention group. Teachers exposed to the school intervention demonstrated more supportive attitudes toward gender equality and non-violence. Learners in intervention schools reported greater knowledge of positive relationship behaviors and increased confidence in addressing conflict non-violently.
Conclusions The Skhokho intervention shows that it is feasible to implement holistic, school-based approaches to violence prevention and that such efforts can influence the social norms that shape adolescent behavior. Addressing violence as a normative and disciplinary tool—within families, schools, and peer relationships—is essential for sustainable change. A layered approach that builds skills, shifts attitudes, and creates supportive environments is key to challenging the norms that sustain intimate partner violence.