Dominant notions of masculinity fuelling violence among young male students Durban South Africa.

Abstract

Universities are increasingly becoming hotspots for violent crimes such as murder, suicide, intimate partner violence, collective violence, and many other violent acts that have made headlines across the country. The prevalence of highly violent acts influenced the need to look at the socialization of young men into manhood as boys face challenges when they transition into manhood. This study aims to shed insights into notions of masculinity influencing violent behaviours among young male students in Durban. This research analyses the intersection of masculinity perceptions relative to violent behaviours to aid in expanding knowledge of intervention strategies. The sampling technique was purposive sampling to ensure that the information gathered from fifteen participants reflected the research objectives. The study used the thematic analysis method as a data collection tool to ensure meaningful, trustworthy, and insightful qualitative results. Social constructivism theory was used to provide further insights and understanding of how young men learn and model that masculinity can influence violent behaviours. The interviews indicate that the behaviour of young men at the university is primarily influenced by masculinity ideas that society has already expected them to conform to. The interviews suggest that young men at tertiary institutions strive to continuously achieve and maintain their social status by engaging in behaviours that align with social values perceived to be masculine. Furthermore, the findings indicate that some young men in tertiary institutions adhere to patriarchal ideals to strengthen their masculinity, earn respect, and maintain their social position, which may influence how frequently they use violence. Among higher education institutions, there is a gap in implementing more programs aimed at addressing gender norms and transforming modern masculinities to aid in combatting violence. The study identifies a great need for universities to provide professional services such as psychosocial support, online education programs, and organized forums and dialogues relating to violence among young males at universities.