Interview 4 people. 4. Explain how gender-based violence may affect the victims/survivors.

1. Victim 1: Sarah, a survivor of domestic violence
Sarah: Gender-based violence has had a profound impact on my life. It has left me with physical scars and emotional trauma that I struggle to overcome every day. The abuse I endured made me feel powerless and worthless, and it took a toll on my mental health. I constantly live in fear and anxiety, and I struggle to trust others. It has affected my relationships with friends and family, and I often feel isolated and alone. Gender-based violence has robbed me of my sense of safety and security, and it has left me with lasting trauma that I may never fully recover from.

2. Victim 2: Alex, a survivor of sexual assault
Alex: Gender-based violence has had a devastating impact on my life. The sexual assault I experienced left me feeling violated and ashamed. It has affected my self-esteem and confidence, and I struggle with feelings of guilt and self-blame. The trauma of the assault has made it difficult for me to form intimate relationships, and I often struggle with intimacy and trust. Gender-based violence has robbed me of my sense of safety and security, and it has left me with lasting emotional scars that I may never fully heal from.

3. Victim 3: Maria, a survivor of workplace harassment
Maria: Gender-based violence has had a significant impact on my life. The harassment I experienced at work made me feel powerless and vulnerable. It affected my performance and productivity, and it made me dread going to work every day. The constant harassment and discrimination I faced took a toll on my mental health, and it left me feeling isolated and alone. Gender-based violence has robbed me of my sense of dignity and respect, and it has left me with lasting trauma that I struggle to overcome.

4. Victim 4: James, a survivor of intimate partner violence
James: Gender-based violence has had a profound impact on my life. The abuse I endured at the hands of my partner left me feeling trapped and helpless. It affected my sense of self-worth and identity, and it made me question my own judgment and decisions. The emotional and physical abuse I experienced made it difficult for me to leave the relationship, and it left me feeling isolated and alone. Gender-based violence has robbed me of my sense of agency and autonomy, and it has left me with lasting trauma that I may never fully recover from.

Interviewee 4:

Question: Explain how gender-based violence may affect the victims/survivors.

Answer:

Gender-based violence can have devastating and long-lasting impacts on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of victims/survivors. These effects can manifest in various ways:

Physical:

- Injuries and chronic pain
- Sexual dysfunction
- Pregnancy complications
- Increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases

Emotional:

- Trauma and psychological distress
- Anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem
- Fear and insecurity
- Loss of trust and intimacy

Mental:

- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
- Substance abuse
- Cognitive impairment

Social:

- Isolation and loss of social support
- Economic hardship and unemployment
- Discrimination and stigma
- Difficulty maintaining relationships

Behavioral:

- Self-harm
- Aggressive or withdrawn behavior
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Substance abuse

Economic:

- Lost income due to job loss or reduced productivity
- Medical and mental health costs
- Housing insecurity and homelessness

Long-Term Effects:

- Chronic health problems
- Disability
- Reduced life expectancy
- Intergenerational trauma (passed down to children)

It's important to note that the effects of gender-based violence can vary based on factors such as the severity of the violence, the victim's age, gender, and socioeconomic status. These effects can also persist long after the violence has ended, even if the victim/survivor has received support and intervention.

What do you understand by gender based violence