Cultural Norms as Determinants of Gender-Based Violence: A Literature Review of Impacts on Women’s Physical, Psychological, and Socio-Economic Well-being in South Africa

Abstract

Gender-based violence in South Africa is a serious public health and human rights. Cultural norms and patriarchal beliefs often normalize violence, creating difficulties for women to seek help or escape abusive relationships. This narrative literature review examines how cultural norms act as main dictators of gendered violence in South Africa, also how they affect women’s physical health, mental well-being, and socio-economic status. Drawing on Heise’s (1998) Ecological Model and Social Norms Theory, were used in the study to understand how individual, community, and societal factors interact to sustain harmful gender norms. The review synthesises recent scholarly literature (2022–2026) to highlight how traditional gender roles, notions of male dominance, family honour, and community attitudes legitimize violence and hinder help-seeking and justice. Study findings demonstrate that traditional gender roles, male dominance, and ideas about family honor often legitimize violence and discourage help-seeking. Psychologically, survivors report PTSD, anxiety, depression, shame, and suicidal ideation. Socio-economically, stigma, injury, and lack of land or income often keep women in abusive relationships. Historical factors including apartheid and colonialism continue to limit black women’s education, property ownership, and economic independence, particularly in rural areas. Irrespective of progressive legislation, implementation is still ineffective due to cultural resistance and systemic barriers. GBV cannot be addressed at an individual level alone. The review emphasises the necessity for multi-level, culturally sensitive interventions involving traditional leaders, encourage positive masculinities, empower women economically, and enhance trauma-informed support services. This study contributes to the growing discourse on culturally responsive GBV prevention in South Africa and provides practical implications for social work practice, policy development, and community-based interventions directed at transforming harmful norms and advancing gender equality.