Socio-economic factors and gender based violence (gbv) among youth in Ruiru Sub-County, Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

The relationship between socio -economic factors and gender -based violence (GBV) among youth of Ruiru Sub - County, Kiambu County, Kenya was studied. Specifically, it discussed the impact of the income level, power dynamics in intimate relationships and the prevailing cultural norms in society on the occurrence of GBV. Guided through Social Learning Theory and Social Exchange Theory, a descriptive cross sectional design approach was followed. A total of 256 respondents were selected from an accessible population of 664 youths by use of stratified random sampling to achieve gender balance. Data collection was done from 244 completed questionnaires and 12 interview schedules. Quantitative data analysis was performed using the statistical analysis software (SPSS) and qualitative response was the analytically analyzed using (NVivo) software. The results showed that GBV among youth in Ruiru Sub -County is influenced by a complex interaction of economic, relationship and cultural factors. Financial instability, unemployment and economic dependency became identified as key factors contributing to the youth vulnerability to GBV. A significant positive correlation was developed between income levels and GBV vulnerability (I: 0.71, p< 0.01; b= 0.376, p= 0.013). Similarly, power imbalances (7.01, 1:.79; p<.0l, b= .418, p=.014; Christy et al., 2009) and cultural norms (?.0l, r=.69; p<.0l, b=.30l, p=.0l3) were found to be significant predictors (Andiman and Andiman, 2001) in intimate relationships. Qualitative evidence further supported the extent of gender expectations, and economic dependency on how patriarchal dominance supports. The conclusion of the study was that GBV among youth is systemic and multidimensional and deeply rooted in socio - economic inequalities and traditional power hierarchies. It calls for integrated, gender responsive strategies, with all relevant stakeholders on government levels, civil society and community, for youth empowerment and challenging harmful socio-cultural nonns.