The influence of cultural norms, values, and practices in perpetuating toxic masculinity and domestic violence

This article analyses Zulu proverbs on courtship, marriage, and the family to explore the influence of socio-cultural norms, values, and practices in perpetuating domestic violence. The study found that patriarchal norms entrench gender inequality which engender toxic masculinity which culminate in the abuse or violent treatment of women. The paper uses the socio-ecological model which holds that personal, relational, and social circumstances predispose certain individuals to violence. Proverbs in the Zulu culture reveal a permissive attitude towards men in both courtship and marriage. Furthermore, marriage is expected to be hard and volatile for women who are expected to persevere and never leave regardless of circumstances. The proverbs explicitly caution against the use of physical violence and encourage supportive and cooperative relationships to build homes. A belief that no one should meddle in family feuds perpetuates violence as families are not held accountable. This article contributes to scholarship by demonstrating how proverbs which embody indigenous knowledge passed down from generation to generation inculcate toxic masculinity and sanction gender inequality.