By Dr. Harshmeet — Counselling Psychologist
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is one of the most pervasive yet under-reported human rights violations across the world. It affects individuals across age groups, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. As a counselling psychologist, I often meet clients who silently carry the emotional, psychological, and physical wounds of such experiences, unsure of how to name what they are going through.This article aims to bring clarity, awareness, and hope — because understanding GBV is the first step toward preventing it and supporting survivors.
Gender-Based Violence refers to any harmful act directed at an individual because of their gender. While women and girls are disproportionately affected, GBV can impact all genders, including men, transgender persons, and non-binary individuals.It stems from unequal power dynamics, harmful gender norms, rigid expectations, and discrimination that justify violence or control over another person.
Forms of Gender-Based Violence
GBV can occur in many visible and invisible forms:
1. Physical Violence
Hitting, slapping, kicking, pushing
Using objects or weapons to cause harm
Restricting movement or locking someone inside
2. Emotional & Psychological Abuse
Constant criticism, humiliation, or threats
Gaslighting and manipulating realitySocial isolation or controlling access to friends/family
3. Sexual Violence
Rape or attempted rape
Sexual assault or unwanted physical contact
Coercion into sexual acts
Denial of sexual autonomy
4. Economic & Financial Abuse
Controlling income or financial decisions
Restricting access to education or employment
Forcing someone to remain financially dependent
5. Digital or Online Abuse
Cyberstalking, threats, blackmail
Non-consensual sharing of images
Monitoring someone’s devices or accounts
6. Structural & Social Violence
Gender discrimination at workplaces
Harmful cultural practices (e.g., dowry, child marriage)
Inequality upheld by institutions or systems
Why Does Gender-Based Violence Happen?
GBV is rarely about anger — it is about power and control.
Some key factors include:
Deep-rooted gender stereotypes
Patriarchal norms and social conditioning
Lack of awareness about healthy relationships
Childhood exposure to violence
Ineffective legal action or low reporting
Societal justification of certain types of behaviour (“It’s normal”, “It happens in all marriages”)
Signs Someone May Be Experiencing GBV
People experiencing gender-based violence may show:
Increased anxiety, depression, or emotional withdrawal
Unexplained injuries or vague explanations
Fear of upsetting their partner or family
Loss of confidence or self-esteem
Sudden financial dependence
Social isolation
If you are noticing these signs in yourself or someone you know, seeking help can be a life-changing step.
Impact of Gender-Based Violence
The effects of GBV go far beyond visible injuries.
Survivors often experience:
Chronic stress, trauma, and PTSDSleep disturbances
Difficulties in relationships
Low self-worth or guilt
Difficulty trusting others
Long-term mental health concerns
Early intervention and compassionate support can significantly improve recovery.
How Can Counselling Help?
Counselling provides:
A safe, confidential, non-judgmental space
Tools to understand unhealthy patterns
Psychoeducation about abuse and boundaries
Safety planning (if needed)
Processing trauma at a gentle pace
Support in rebuilding confidence and agency
Therapy does not force decisions — it empowers individuals to choose what feels safest and healthiest for them.
If You Are Experiencing Gender-Based Violence
You are not alone. And what you are experiencing is not your fault.
Here are a few steps that may help:
Speak to a trusted friend or professional
Document incidents privately
Ensure you have emergency contacts saved
Seek counselling for emotional support
Reach out to helplines or local NGOs if in immediate danger
Final Words
Gender-Based Violence thrives in silence. Awareness, support, and psychological safety can help break this cycle. As a counselling psychologist, my approach is centred on empathy, confidentiality, and empowerment — helping survivors rebuild their voice, strength, and sense of safety.If you or someone you know needs support, reaching out is the first and most courageous step.