GENDER BASED
VIOLENCE
FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF A TEENAGER
Interview done by: Claudene Sebolai I had a chat with Jaylynn (16), Anethia (16) and Karleigh (13) on the topic of GBV. One might think that young people aren’t interested in or don’t pay attention to intimate partner violence, however, these three were very passionate in their engagement around this issue. WHAT, IN OUR OPINION IS GENDER BASED VIOLENCE?
Karleigh: Gender oppression of any sort which leads to atrocities such as femicide or rape, spree killings involving predominantly one gender, and serial killings amongst others. Jaylynn: GBV is when someone is hurt in any way because of his or her gender or sexual orientation. GBV occurs when there is an unequal balance of power within intimate relationships as well as in society. Anethia: GBV is when someone is oppressed due to gender norms and are coerced by either a partner or a parent or society to fit a specific criterion.
DO YOU THINK INTIMATE PARTNER ABUSE OCCURS AMONGST TEENAGERS?
Karleigh: Yes intimate partner abuse doesn’t only happen to a certain age group. Jaylynn: Yes, definitely! For example, young people might think that name calling in a relationship is normal when in fact it is abusive. Most teenagers do not report these unhealthy behaviors, as they might be afraid to open up to family and friends.
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