Why Is Gender-Based Violence Always Associated with Women and Children

Many people wonder why gender-based violence is always associated with women and children. This is an important and sensitive topic that needs to be discussed clearly. Gender-based violence, also called GBV, means harm done to a person based on their gender. Although both men and women can experience violence, the majority of victims are women and children. This is because of historical, social, and cultural reasons that make women and children more vulnerable. They often face inequality, discrimination, and a lack of power.

In this blog, we will explain in simple words why gender-based violence is always associated with women and children, and why it's important to understand this issue for better awareness and action.

What Is Gender-Based Violence?

Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to any harmful act directed at a person based on their gender. It can include:

Physical violence (like hitting or beating)

Sexual violence (such as rape or harassment)

Emotional or psychological abuse (like threats or control)

Economic abuse (denying money or resources)

GBV happens in homes, workplaces, schools, and public spaces. While anyone can be a victim, studies show that women and children are most often affected. This is why the question arises: Why is gender-based violence always associated with women and children? The answer lies in social norms, traditions, and the imbalance of power between genders.

Historical Gender Inequality

One major reason why gender-based violence is always associated with women and children is the long history of gender inequality. For many centuries, women were considered weaker or less important than men. In many societies, men were given control over families, property, and decision-making. Women were expected to be quiet, obedient, and dependent.

These old beliefs still affect many communities today. In such environments, violence against women is often ignored or accepted as “normal.” Children, especially girls, are also seen as less powerful and more dependent, making them easy targets for abuse.

This long-standing inequality helps explain why women and children are more at risk of GBV.

Power and Control

At the heart of gender-based violence is power and control. Abusers often want to control their victims through fear, shame, or violence. Since women and children usually have less power in relationships and society, they are more likely to become victims.

For example:

In some families, husbands may abuse their wives to feel dominant.

In schools, older students or teachers may take advantage of younger children.

In workplaces, male bosses may harass female workers who fear losing their jobs.

These examples show how lack of power makes women and children more vulnerable. This is a key reason why gender-based violence is always associated with women and children.

Cultural and Social Norms

Culture and tradition also play a big role. In many places, people grow up with the idea that men must be strong and in control, while women must serve or obey. Some harmful customs, like child marriage or female genital mutilation, are still practiced in some parts of the world. These practices directly harm women and girls.

Also, in some cultures, families are ashamed to speak about abuse. Victims are blamed or told to keep quiet, especially if they are women or children. This silence makes it harder to stop the violence and adds to the belief that GBV mainly affects women and children.

Media and Awareness

Another reason why gender-based violence is always associated with women and children is the way it is shown in the media and public campaigns. Most advertisements, news reports, and social awareness programs focus on women and children as victims. This is because they form the largest and most visible group affected by GBV.

Campaigns like “Stop Violence Against Women” or “Protect the Girl Child” have been effective in drawing attention to this issue. However, this focus can sometimes make people forget that men can also be victims of gender-based violence, especially in cases involving domestic abuse or emotional violence.

Legal and Policy Focus

Governments and organizations around the world have made laws and policies to protect victims of GBV. Most of these laws are designed to help women and children, who are seen as the most vulnerable. Shelters, helplines, and support centers often focus on female victims and child protection.

While this is necessary and helpful, it also adds to the belief that only women and children experience GBV. The legal system may sometimes ignore male victims or others in the LGBTQ+ community who also face violence due to gender identity.

This shows that while the focus is helpful, we must also remember that gender-based violence can affect anyone.

Men as Victims: The Hidden Truth

Though it is less common, some men do experience gender-based violence. They may face abuse from partners, bullying, or even emotional control. However, many men are afraid to report it because of shame or fear of being judged. Society often expects men to be strong, so when they suffer, they stay silent.

This silence makes it harder to recognize and support male victims. While it’s true that women and children face GBV more often, we must not ignore the other victims. Understanding this helps to create a more balanced and fair view of gender-based violence.

Importance of Changing Perceptions

Understanding why gender-based violence is always associated with women and children is important for making change. We must continue to protect and support these groups because they are the most affected. But at the same time, we need to:

> Educate everyone about GBV

> Promote gender equality in all areas

> Encourage men to speak up about their experiences

> Create safe spaces for all victims

By doing this, we make sure that no one is left behind, and all forms of violence are taken seriously, no matter who the victim is.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the reason why gender-based violence is always associated with women and children is because they are the most common victims due to social, cultural, and historical inequalities. They often have less power in homes, schools, and society, which makes them more vulnerable. Media, laws, and public campaigns also focus more on these groups, which is important but can overlook others. While women and children need strong support, we must also remember that anyone can be affected by gender-based violence.

To create a safer world, we must protect all victims and promote respect, equality, and understanding. Knowing why gender-based violence is always associated with women and children helps us act wisely and fairly.