Intimate partner, familial and community violence among men who have sex with men in Namibia

Cult Health Sex. 2014;16(5):473-87. doi: 10.1080/13691058.2014.889753. Epub 2014 Apr 16.

Abstract

Men who have sex with men in sub-Saharan Africa are known to experience high levels of violence, yet little research has focused on their perceptions of intimate partner violence (IPV). This study examines the perceived typologies and sources of multiple forms of violence, including IPV, family/community violence and discrimination from healthcare workers, among men who have sex with men in Namibia. Focus-group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted with a 52 men residing in five cities across Namibia. Results indicate that violence, in varying forms, is commonplace in the lives of men who have sex with men in this community, and may be associated with HIV testing patterns.

Keywords: Namibia; intimate partner violence; men who have sex with men.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Crime Victims / psychology*
  • Family Relations*
  • Homosexuality, Male / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Namibia
  • Sexual Partners / psychology
  • Social Perception*
  • Urban Population