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Volume 9 , Number 1, May 2025 

 ISSN : 2579-8383 (Print) ISSN : 2579-8405 (Online) 

 

  

The Influence of Gender Centred Aggressiveness on the Academic 

Performance of Learners: Chishakwe Primary School in Mutare 

District  
 

Mapfunde Davie1,   Mungomezi Nisbert2 
1Zimbabwe Open University, Harare, Zimbabwe 
2Chitakatira Primary School, Mutare, Zimbabwe 

vfunda@ufh.ac.za   

 

Accepted: 
Jan 28th 2025 

Reviewed: 
March 18th 2025 

Published: 
May 30th 2025 

 

Abstract  
This qualitative case study aimed to explore the influence of gender-centered aggressiveness on 

the academic performance of students in a school in Mutare District, Manicaland. A sample of 25 

students was selected through purposive sampling, and data were collected using interviews, focus 

group discussions, and the analysis of existing documents. A descriptive approach was applied to 

analyze the data. The findings revealed that gender-centered aggressiveness negatively impacted 

students' academic performance, contributing to poor academic outcomes due to disruptions in 

the learning environment, emotional distress, and decreased engagement in academic activities. 

Based on these results, the study recommends that the government and educational stakeholders 

take immediate action to address gender-based aggression in schools through policy development, 

awareness programs, and the establishment of support systems to ensure a safe and conducive 

learning environment for all students. 

Keywords: academic, gender centred aggression, physical, emotional, psychological 

 

 By Authors 
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International 
License. 

 

Introduction 

Gender-Centered Aggressiveness (GCA), often termed Gender-Based Violence (GBV), 

refers to any act of violence that results in physical, sexual, or psychological harm based on gender. 

While both males and females may experience this violence, it predominantly affects girls and 

women due to deeply ingrained societal norms and power imbalances. GCA includes physical 

violence, sexual assault, emotional abuse, verbal harassment, and economic coercion, all of which 

adversely affect the victims’ well-being and opportunities in life. The widespread nature of GCA, 

occurring in nearly every region and culture, highlights its pervasive influence on the lives of 

children and adolescents. Although GCA affects both genders, research consistently indicates that 

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Volume 9, Number 1, May 2025| 16 

 

  

girls are disproportionately impacted, with violence often linked to traditional gender roles that 

subordinate women and girls within society 1. 

In educational settings, GCA creates an unsafe and hostile learning environment, which 

significantly impedes students’ academic performance. Schools, ideally spaces for intellectual 

growth, become sites where societal power dynamics manifest, often contributing to a hostile 

atmosphere for girls. The United Nations (2006) identifies gender-based violence as a major barrier 

to education, particularly for girls, contributing to poor academic outcomes, absenteeism, 

emotional trauma, and high dropout rates. The effects of GCA in schools are compounded by the 

lack of effective prevention and intervention strategies, which leaves many children vulnerable to 

violence and abuse. The consequences of GCA on education are profound and far-reaching, as 

they not only disrupt academic engagement but also hinder the personal development and 

emotional stability of students, affecting their future prospects 2. 

GCA affects children in many parts of the world, including both developed and developing 

countries. In Bangladesh, for instance, 91% of children reported having experienced physical 

punishment at school, while in India, over half of children experienced various forms of sexual 

exploitation 3 . In more developed countries, such as Romania, the situation is equally concerning. 

A report by Drob 4revealed that 30% of Romanian children had been affected by physical or sexual 

violence, and many victims faced long-term consequences such as emotional distress and reduced 

academic performance. These findings align with those from other countries, where children 

exposed to violence report lower academic achievement and higher levels of absenteeism, both of 

which negatively impact their education 5. In sub-Saharan Africa, where gender norms and 

traditional practices are deeply entrenched, the impact of GCA is particularly severe, often leading 

to forced marriages, early pregnancies, and poor academic outcomes for girls 6. 

 
1 Andere A.M, “Relationship between Schools Related Gender Centred Aggression and Students Academic 

Performance in Secondary Schools in Nakuru County, Kenya.,” Kenyatta University. Nairobi (n.d.). 
2 Maria Luisa Alaniz et al., “The Impact of Gender-Role Identity, Gender Ideology and Drinking Motivations 

on Binge Drinking and Behavioral,” Journal of Studies on Alcohol 21, no. 2 (2013): 3380, 
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11199-006-9163-3%5Cnhttp://0-
search.ebscohost.com.library.alliant.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=psyh&AN=2010-16263-007&site=ehost-
live&scope=site%5Cnhttp://friederike.zimmermann@psychologie.uni-heidelberg.de%5Cnhttp://0-search.e; 
Alexander K Koch and Julia Nafziger, “Self-Regulation through Goal Setting*,” Scandinavian Journal of Economics 113, 
no. 1 (2011): 212–227, http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9442.2010.01641.x; C Teixeira and D Gomes, “Insights into 
Learning Profiles and Learning Outcomes within Introductory Accounting,” Accounting Education 26, no. 5–6 (2017): 
522–552, https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-
84986223144&doi=10.1080%2F09639284.2016.1221767&partnerID=40&md5=6d4afc202694d77bf785251ef0a931
b6. 

3 Klaus Wahl and Cornelia Metzner, “Parental Influences on the Prevalence and Development of Child 
Aggressiveness,” Journal of Child and Family Studies (2012); Shinae Jang and Kyungsoon Lee, “Prevalence and Predictors 
of Teen Dating Violence among High School Youth,” Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction 
(2019). 

4 Martin Lövdén et al., “Education and Cognitive Functioning Across the Life Span,” Psychological Science in the 
Public Interest 21, no. 1 (2020): 6–41. 

5 F & Machakanja Leach  P., “An Investigative Study into the Abuse of Girls in African Schools.,” DfID (n.d.). 
6 R P Corcoran, “Preparing Principals to Improve Student Achievement,” Child and Youth Care Forum 46, no. 5 

(2017): 769–781, https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85017663795&doi=10.1007%2Fs10566-
017-9399-9&partnerID=40&md5=7a30bb261012e888b268c48a52a1e03f. 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 1, May 2025| 17 

 

  

The various forms of GCA include physical violence, emotional violence, sexual violence, 

and economic violence, each of which manifests differently across cultural and social contexts. 

These forms of violence often overlap, compounding the effects on victims and making it 

challenging for them to escape the cycle of abuse. 

This involves the intentional use of force that can cause injury, disability, or death. Physical 

violence in schools often takes the form of corporal punishment or bullying. According to McGee 
7, physical violence includes behaviors such as slapping, hitting, kicking, and pushing. In schools, 

corporal punishment remains a common method of disciplining students, yet it is a form of 

physical violence that can cause lasting emotional and psychological harm. Bullying, particularly 

physical bullying, is also rampant in schools and contributes significantly to the negative academic 

and emotional outcomes for students 8 . 

Emotional violence involves verbal abuse, name-calling, intimidation, and other forms of 

psychological harm. This type of violence can significantly lower a student’s self-esteem and cause 

anxiety, depression, and withdrawal from school activities. Emotional violence can take many 

forms, such as belittling a student’s abilities, threatening them with harm, or isolating them from 

their peers. According to UNIFEM 9, emotional violence can have lasting effects on students' 

mental health, making it difficult for them to engage with their studies or participate meaningfully 

in school life. 

Sexual violence, including rape, molestation, and sexual harassment, is another prevalent 

form of GCA. Sexual violence in schools not only affects the victims’ emotional and physical 

health but also their academic performance. The psychological trauma caused by sexual violence 

often leads to a decline in school attendance and engagement, as well as poor academic outcomes 
10. Girls are particularly vulnerable to sexual violence, and in many regions, sexual harassment is 

normalized within educational settings, further complicating efforts to address the issue . 

Economic violence includes the use of financial means to control or manipulate others. In 

the context of GCA, this can take the form of forced labor or coercion in exchange for educational 

opportunities. Although less often discussed, economic violence is a significant form of GCA, 

 
7 Jeffrey E McGee et al., “Entrepreneurial Self–Efficacy: Refining the Measure,” Entrepreneurship Theory and 

Practice 33, no. 4 (2009): 965–988, http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-6520.2009.00304.x. 
8 Shuang Yu and Xiaojun Zhao, “The Negative Impact of Bullying Victimization on Academic Literacy and 

Social Integration: Evidence from 51 Countries in PISA,” Social Sciences and Humanities Open (2021); Nieves Moyano 
and María del Mar Sánchez-Fuentes, “Homophobic Bullying at Schools: A Systematic Review of Research, Prevalence, 
School-Related Predictors and Consequences,” Aggression and Violent Behavior, 2020; Robin M. Kowalski and Susan P. 
Limber, “Psychological, Physical, and Academic Correlates of Cyberbullying and Traditional Bullying,” Journal of 
Adolescent Health (2013); Tauben Averbuch, Yousif Eliya, and Harriette Gillian Christine Van Spall, “Systematic Review 
of Academic Bullying in Medical Settings: Dynamics and Consequences,” BMJ Open, 2021. 

9 Sintayehu Wolka S Tantu T.  Gunta M., Teshome M., Mohamme H. and Duko B., “Prevalence and 
Determinants of Gender Centred Aggression among High School Female Students in Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia: An 
Institutionally Based Cross-Sectional Study.,” UNIFEM (n.d.). 

10 Riana Elyse Anderson, Farzana T. Saleem, and James P. Huguley, “Choosing to See the Racial Stress That 
Afflicts Our Black Students,” Phi Delta Kappan (2019); S. Megan Berthold, “War Traumas and Community Violence: 
Psychological, Behavioral, and Academic Outcomes Among Khmer Refugee Adolescents,” Journal of Multicultural Social 
Work (2000); Shantel D. Crosby, “An Ecological Perspective on Emerging Trauma-Informed Teaching Practices,” 
Children and Schools (2015). 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 1, May 2025| 18 

 

  

particularly in situations where children are pressured to trade sexual favors for educational 

benefits, such as passing exams or securing school promotions . 

The impact of GCA on academic performance is multifaceted and detrimental. Studies 

consistently show that students who are victims of GCA experience lower academic achievement, 

higher absenteeism, and increased dropout rates. A study by Leach and Machakanja (2003) 

revealed that students subjected to gender-based violence, including sexual intimidation and verbal 

abuse, had higher rates of irregular school attendance and underachievement in school. GCA has 

a direct impact on students’ emotional and psychological well-being, leading to decreased 

motivation to engage with their studies and reduced concentration in class. Furthermore, victims 

of sexual violence often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and 

anxiety, which further interfere with their ability to focus on their education 11. 

GCA also leads to significant developmental delays in children, particularly in terms of 

emotional and social growth. Children exposed to violence often develop feelings of fear and 

aggression, which can lead to disruptive behavior in the classroom and difficulties in establishing 

positive peer relationships 12. These emotional and behavioral issues directly affect students’ ability 

to learn, resulting in poor academic performance. In cases where sexual violence leads to 

pregnancy, students are often forced to leave school, resulting in a permanent disruption of their 

educational progress 13. 

The long-term consequences of GCA on students’ academic performance are significant, 

affecting their future educational opportunities and career prospects. According to the United 

Nations (2006), the effects of GCA in schools are a major barrier to achieving the goal of 

Education for All (EFA). If not addressed, GCA will continue to prevent students from reaching 

their full academic potential and hinder their ability to succeed in life. 

Gender-Centered Aggressiveness in schools is a major issue that directly affects the 

academic performance and overall well-being of students. The various forms of GCA—physical, 

emotional, sexual, and economic violence—create an unsafe and toxic learning environment that 

impedes students' ability to engage with their education. The impact of GCA on students is both 

immediate and long-lasting, affecting their emotional health, academic performance, and future 

opportunities. Addressing GCA in educational settings requires comprehensive strategies, 

including policy reforms, awareness campaigns, and interventions to create safe, supportive, and 

inclusive learning environments for all students. 

 

 

Method 

This study employed a qualitative research paradigm to explore the influence of gender-

centered aggressiveness on the academic performance of learners at Chishakwe Primary School. 

 
11 J & Chege Ruto  R., “Violence against Girls as a Structural Barrier to Her Right to and Education.,” UNFPA 

(n.d.); Ruto J., “Sexual Abuse of School Age Children: Evidence from Kenya.,” Wolaita Sodo University (n.d.). 
12 Greg Strimel, Scott Bartholomew, and Eunhye Kim, “Engaging Children in Engineering Design Through 

the World of Quadcopters,” Children’s Technology and Engineering Journal (2017). 
13 P Githinji, “Sexual Abuse of Children: A Study of Primary School Pupils in Nakuru Municipality, Kenya.,” 

Kenyatta University (n.d.). 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 1, May 2025| 19 

 

  

Qualitative research is particularly suited for investigating complex social phenomena such as 

GCA, as it allows for in-depth exploration of individuals' experiences, perceptions, and behaviors. 

By focusing on understanding the "why" and "how" behind the effects of GCA, this approach 

provided rich, contextual insights into the issue, capturing the perspectives of victims and key 

stakeholders, including students, teachers, and school administrators. The qualitative approach 

allowed for a comprehensive understanding of how gender-based violence impacts students' 

academic outcomes and personal development. 

 

Research Design 

A case study design was used to focus on the specific context of Chishakwe Primary School. 

This design was selected because it provides a detailed examination of the issue within its real-life 

context, facilitating an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon. The case study approach is 

well-suited for exploring complex issues in specific settings, enabling the researcher to capture 

nuanced data about the experiences of participants. Data were collected through multiple methods, 

including interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis. This triangulation of data 

sources enriched the findings, offering a comprehensive view of the problem from multiple 

perspectives. The research was delimited to this particular school, ensuring a detailed analysis of 

the effects of GCA on the academic performance of students within this specific educational 

environment. 

 

Participants 

The study involved a purposive sample of twenty participants. The sample included 20 

learners, 15 of whom were girls and 5 were boys. In addition, three teachers from the school 

participated, including one male and two female teachers. The study also included two members 

of the School Development Committee (SDC), one male and one female, who represented the 

parents' perspectives. Purposive sampling was chosen because it allows for the selection of 

participants who are most likely to provide valuable insights into the research question. This 

sampling technique ensured that the participants had relevant experiences and knowledge to 

contribute to the study, particularly in relation to their direct involvement with the issue of gender-

centered aggressiveness in the school environment. 

 

Data Collection 

Data were collected through a combination of interviews, focus group discussions, and 

document analysis. Semi-structured interview questions were designed to guide conversations with 

the students, teachers, and parents. These interviews were conducted individually with the learners 

and teachers, while focus group discussions were held with the parents and teachers to allow for 

the sharing of ideas and experiences within a group setting. The focus groups encouraged 

participants to discuss their perceptions of GCA and its effects on academic performance in a 

collective setting, which provided additional insights into the issue. 

Interviews and focus group discussions were scheduled at times convenient for the 

participants, and the researchers made appointments to ensure that participants could freely 



 
 

  
 
  

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express their views without time constraints. Prior to data collection, the researchers explained the 

purpose of the study, the procedures involved, and the ethical considerations, including 

confidentiality and voluntary participation. Informed consent was obtained from all participants 

before the start of data collection. The data collection process took approximately two weeks, 

during which time the researchers engaged with the participants to gather comprehensive data 

about their experiences with GCA and its effects on their academic performance. 

 

Data Analysis 

The collected data were analyzed using a descriptive approach. This approach involved 

organizing the data into categories based on themes that emerged during the data collection 

process. The data from interviews and focus groups were transcribed and analyzed to identify 

recurring patterns and insights related to the impact of gender-centered aggressiveness on students' 

academic outcomes. Document analysis was also used to review any relevant school records and 

reports that could provide additional context about the prevalence and impact of GCA in the 

school environment. The findings were then synthesized to draw conclusions about the ways in 

which GCA affects students’ academic performance and to identify potential interventions or 

recommendations for addressing the issue in schools. 

 

Results and Discussion 

Biographic Data of Participants 

The demographic data collected during this study provides an overview of the age and 

gender distribution of participants, as outlined in Table 4.1. The study included 25 participants, 

consisting of teachers, students, and School Development Committee (SDC) members. The 

majority of the teachers were in the 40-49 age range, with only one teacher in the 30-39 age group. 

The SDC members were balanced in terms of gender, with one male and one female. All the 

students were between the ages of 10 and 19 years, with a higher proportion of female students, 

as they represent the majority at the school. This age and gender breakdown reflects the reality 

that girls are the primary victims of gender-centered aggressiveness at the school. 

Table 1: Description of Age along Gender Lines (N=25) 

Age & Gender Teachers Pupils SDC TOTAL  
F M F M 

10-19 years 
  

15 5 
20-29 years 

    

30-39 years 1 
   

40-49 years 1 1 
  

50-59 years 
    

Total 3 20 2 25 

 

 

Forms of Gender-Centered Aggressiveness Among Learners 

The study found that gender-centered aggressiveness at Chishakwe Primary School 

manifests in four primary forms: physical violence, emotional violence, sexual violence, and 



 
 

  
 
  

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economic violence. Each of these forms was further elaborated by the participants, providing clear 

examples and explanations for each type of aggressiveness. 

1. Physical Violence: The participants identified various forms of physical violence, such as 

scratching, pushing, shoving, slapping, punching, biting, choking, shaking, burning, and assault 

with weapons. These forms of violence are consistent with definitions by McGee (2000) and 

UNIFEM (2011), who describe physical violence as the use of force with potential to cause 

harm or injury. The impact of physical violence includes truancy, as students may miss school 

to recover from injuries or avoid further harm, which contributes to academic 

underachievement. 

2. Emotional Violence: Participants described emotional violence as mistreatment that 

undermines a person’s self-worth, which involves verbal abuse, belittling, and intimidation. 

Examples provided included criticism, insults, manipulation, and shouting. Emotional violence 

leads to reduced self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, negatively impacting students' academic 

performance by causing them to lose interest in school and struggle with concentration. 

3. Sexual Violence: Sexual violence was identified as one of the most pervasive forms of gender-

centered aggression at the school. This includes sexual harassment, rape, and coercion. 

Participants confirmed that sexual violence, particularly against girls, leads to absenteeism, 

emotional trauma, and school disengagement, significantly affecting their academic 

performance. Sexual violence is not only harmful to students' physical health but also their 

mental and emotional well-being. 

4. Economic Violence: Economic violence was described as any behavior that causes economic 

harm to an individual, such as restricting access to educational resources or not fulfilling 

financial responsibilities. This form of violence can impact students’ ability to pay for school 

fees, buy necessary materials, or participate in school-related activities. This deprivation leads 

to academic struggles, as students are unable to access essential learning tools. 

 

Impact of Gender-Centered Aggressiveness on Academic Performance 

The research findings revealed a clear link between gender-centered aggressiveness and 

academic underperformance among learners. The collected data from school records and 

participant interviews showed that students affected by GCA faced significant barriers to their 

academic success. These barriers include: 

1. Retarded Intellectual and Personal Growth: Gender-centered aggression has a direct impact on 

both the intellectual and personal growth of learners. Students subjected to physical violence 

or sexual abuse exhibited difficulty concentrating, frequent absenteeism, and emotional distress, 

which led to poor academic performance. 

2. Emotional and Psychological Distress: Victims of GCA, particularly girls, reported symptoms 

such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, social isolation, and suicidal ideation. These 

emotional challenges significantly impacted their ability to focus on studies, resulting in lower 

academic achievement. 

3. Health Consequences: Victims of sexual violence, especially girls, are at risk of contracting 

sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV/AIDS, and may experience unplanned 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 1, May 2025| 22 

 

  

pregnancies. These health consequences often prevent students from attending school 

regularly, leading to further academic challenges and, in some cases, school dropout. 

4. Negative Effects on Academic Engagement: Students who experience emotional or physical 

violence often lose interest in school and disengage from academic activities. This 

disengagement results in lower academic performance and reduced participation in school 

events and class discussions. 

The findings align with the work of Leach and Machakanja 14, who found that sexual 

intimidation, verbal abuse, and physical assault significantly contribute to irregular school 

attendance and underachievement. In addition, Ruto 15 emphasized that gender-based violence in 

schools is a major barrier to girls' education, with severe consequences for their academic success. 

 

Qualitative Evidence of Academic Impact 

In interviews, teachers confirmed that students subjected to GCA often exhibited 

behavioral problems such as aggression, defiance, and withdrawal. These students were less likely 

to participate in class, and their performance in subjects such as mathematics and reading was 

noticeably lower. As noted by one guidance counselor, "The result of violence shows adverse 

impacts indirectly and directly on the health of students and their education and their organization. 

Their academic performance is affected badly, and they remain mentally disturbed." 

 

Discussion 

The findings from this study provide important insights into the influence of gender-

centered aggressiveness (GCA) on the academic performance of learners at Chishakwe Primary 

School in Mutare District. The results confirmed that GCA significantly impairs students' 

intellectual, emotional, and social development, with clear implications for their academic 

outcomes. This discussion aims to place the study's results in the context of the theoretical 

framework, compare them to existing research, and identify the contributions of this study to the 

broader field of educational research on gender-based violence. 

The study's results are consistent with theoretical frameworks that emphasize the impact 

of emotional and physical violence on children's cognitive and academic functioning. The findings 

support the ecological systems theory, which posits that a child's development is influenced by 

interactions at multiple levels, including the family, school, and broader community 16. In this 

study, gender-centered aggression within the school environment disrupted students' social and 

emotional well-being, leading to academic difficulties. The results underscore how violence in the 

immediate environment, particularly in school settings, can negatively affect students' ability to 

concentrate, engage in learning, and participate in academic activities. 

 
14 Leach  P., “An Investigative Study into the Abuse of Girls in African Schools.” 
15 Ruto J., “Sexual Abuse of School Age Children: Evidence from Kenya.,” UN Women (n.d.). 
16 Steven C Hertler et al., “Urie Bronfenbrenner: Toward an Evolutionary Ecological Systems Theory,” Life 

History Evolution: A Biological Meta-Theory for the Social Sciences (2018): 323–339; Samuel L. Odom et al., “Preschool 
Inclusion in the United States: A Review of Research from an Ecological Systems Perspective,” Journal of Research in 
Special Educational Needs (2004); Rob Jones, “The Student Experience of Undergraduate Students: Towards a 
Conceptual Framework,” Journal of Further and Higher Education (2018). 



 
 

  
 
  

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Additionally, the study's findings align with the social-ecological model, which examines 

how societal norms, such as gender inequality, shape behaviors and create an environment 

conducive to violence. In this study, the gender imbalance within the school, with more female 

than male teachers and a higher proportion of female students, reflects broader societal dynamics 

where girls are often more vulnerable to gender-based violence . These societal norms were evident 

in the types of GCA reported, particularly sexual and emotional violence, which disproportionately 

affected female students. 

The results of this study are consistent with existing research on the impact of gender-

based violence in schools. Previous studies have highlighted the detrimental effects of physical, 

emotional, and sexual violence on academic performance and overall well-being. For instance, 

Leach and Machakanja 17 found that sexual violence, verbal abuse, and physical assault significantly 

contributed to poor academic performance and high absenteeism, particularly among female 

students. The current study echoes these findings, particularly in the case of sexual violence, which 

was identified as one of the most pervasive forms of GCA at Chishakwe Primary School. 

In terms of emotional violence, this study's findings are similar to those of UNIFEM 18, 

which reported that emotional abuse, such as belittling, name-calling, and humiliation, leads to a 

loss of self-esteem and motivation, which ultimately affects academic performance. The impact of 

emotional violence was found to be particularly pronounced in students' lack of interest in school 

and academic disengagement, which was also noted by Ruto 19, who found that emotional violence 

is a major barrier to girls' education. 

Moreover, this study's findings regarding the role of economic violence align with the work 

of researchers like 20, who highlighted the negative effects of restricted access to financial resources 

on students' ability to participate fully in education. The restriction of resources, such as school 

fees or educational materials, was found to significantly hinder students' academic performance in 

this study, particularly in cases where learners were denied the financial support needed for their 

education. 

While previous research has identified the various forms of GCA and their impact on 

academic performance, this study contributes to the field by focusing specifically on the school 

setting in Mutare District, Zimbabwe. This geographical context adds a unique perspective, as the 

cultural, social, and economic dynamics of this region may influence the prevalence and forms of 

gender-based violence. By specifically examining Chishakwe Primary School, the study provides 

 
17 Leach  P., “An Investigative Study into the Abuse of Girls in African Schools.” 
18 Tantu T.  Gunta M., Teshome M., Mohamme H. and Duko B., “Prevalence and Determinants of Gender 

Centred Aggression among High School Female Students in Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia: An Institutionally Based Cross-
Sectional Study.”; UNIFEM, “Millions More Cases of Violence: Child Marriage, Female Genital Mutilation, 
Unintended Pregnancies.,” None (n.d.). 

19 J., “Sexual Abuse of School Age Children: Evidence from Kenya.”; J., “Sexual Abuse of School Age Children: 
Evidence from Kenya.”; Ruto  R., “Violence against Girls as a Structural Barrier to Her Right to and Education.” 

20 Rui Zhang et al., “Why Is My World so Dark? Effects of Child Physical and Emotional Abuse on Child 
Depression: The Mediating Role of Self-Compassion and Negative Automatic Thoughts,” Child Abuse and Neglect 
(2022); Zaidi Yob et al., “The Impacts of Poverty, Unemployment, and Divorce on Child Abuse in Malaysia: ARDL 
Approach,” Economies (2022). 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 1, May 2025| 24 

 

  

valuable insights into how gender-centered aggression manifests in a rural Zimbabwean school 

setting and its effects on the academic performance of both male and female students. 

One key contribution of this research is its identification of the interaction between 

different forms of aggression. The study found that physical, emotional, sexual, and economic 

violence often overlap, with students subjected to multiple forms of GCA. This overlap creates a 

compounded effect on students' academic performance, which has been less explored in existing 

literature. For instance, while previous studies have primarily focused on the impact of one type 

of aggression (such as sexual violence), this study demonstrates how students who experience 

multiple forms of GCA are at even greater risk of poor academic performance. 

Additionally, the findings contribute to the growing body of research on the importance 

of teacher engagement in addressing GCA. By emphasizing the central role that teachers play in 

identifying and responding to GCA, this study provides practical recommendations for teacher 

training and school policies. Teachers, who spend significant time with students, can be 

instrumental in identifying early signs of abuse and providing support for affected students. This 

insight is consistent with recommendations from the United Nations Girls’ Education Initiative , 

which calls for a whole-school approach to tackling GCA, involving teachers, administrators, 

parents, and the community. 

The findings of this study have several important implications for practice and policy in 

schools. First, there is a need for comprehensive training for teachers to recognize and respond to 

the various forms of GCA. As the study found, teachers are often in the best position to identify 

the signs of aggression, particularly emotional and physical violence, as they interact closely with 

students on a daily basis. Providing teachers with the tools to identify and address these issues can 

lead to early intervention, which can mitigate the long-term effects of GCA on students' academic 

performance. 

Second, the study highlights the importance of a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach 

to addressing GCA in schools. This includes not only teachers and school administrators but also 

parents, local authorities, and NGOs. The involvement of the broader community, as suggested 

by UNESCO (2016), can provide the necessary support systems for students and create a safer, 

more supportive learning environment. Collaboration between the education sector, child 

protection authorities, and healthcare providers is essential in addressing the multi-dimensional 

nature of GCA. 

Finally, this study underscores the need for stronger national policies and school-level 

interventions to address gender-based violence. The findings point to the importance of creating 

and enforcing school policies that specifically address GCA and its impact on academic 

performance. Schools should develop clear procedures for reporting and addressing incidents of 

violence, as well as providing support for affected students. 

This study provides valuable insights into the impact of gender-centered aggressiveness on 

academic performance in a Zimbabwean school setting. The findings confirm that GCA negatively 

affects students' intellectual, emotional, and social development, leading to poor academic 

performance and higher dropout rates, particularly among girls. The study also contributes to the 

broader field of research on gender-based violence in schools, offering a detailed account of the 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 1, May 2025| 25 

 

  

various forms of aggression and their compounded effects. By emphasizing the role of teachers 

and the importance of a coordinated approach, this study offers practical recommendations for 

improving the response to GCA in schools and supporting the academic success of all students. 

 

Conclusion 

This study underscores the significant impact of gender-centered aggressiveness (GCA) on 

the physical, emotional, and psychological development of learners, with far-reaching implications 

for their academic success. The findings clearly demonstrate that GCA, in its various forms—

whether physical, emotional, sexual, or economic—disrupts not only the immediate academic 

performance of students but also their long-term personal development and mental health. The 

study also highlights that while GCA affects all students, girls are particularly vulnerable, with 

higher rates of victimization leading to more severe consequences for their educational 

engagement and future prospects. 

The results emphasize the need for a multi-pronged approach to address GCA in schools, 

with teachers and other stakeholders playing a crucial role. Teachers are in a unique position to 

identify signs of aggression and intervene, but they require adequate training, motivation, and 

support to effectively respond to these issues. The study suggests that collaboration between 

schools, families, local authorities, and NGOs is essential to create a safer learning environment 

and prevent further incidents of GCA. Furthermore, this research calls attention to the necessity 

of creating policies that not only protect students from violence but also actively promote a culture 

of respect, inclusion, and gender equality within the educational system. 

This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the intersection of gender-

based violence and education by emphasizing the compounded effects of multiple forms of 

violence on students’ well-being and academic outcomes. It also provides practical insights into 

the importance of school-based strategies and community involvement in combating GCA. Future 

research should further explore the long-term effects of gender-centered aggression on academic 

achievement and examine the efficacy of various interventions in reducing violence in schools. 

The findings of this study have significant implications for the field of education and the 

broader societal efforts to address gender-based violence. First, they highlight the urgent need for 

schools to integrate comprehensive strategies that tackle GCA at all levels, from prevention and 

awareness-raising to direct intervention and support for victims. Teachers, as primary figures in 

the school system, must be equipped with the knowledge and resources to address gender-centered 

aggression effectively. In addition, schools should foster a more inclusive and supportive 

environment for all students, particularly those who are at greater risk of violence. 

At the policy level, the study calls for stronger commitments from governments and 

education ministries to enact and enforce laws that protect students from violence in all forms. 

National and local policies should ensure that schools have clear guidelines for preventing and 

responding to GCA. Additionally, the involvement of families and communities is essential in 

creating a protective ecosystem around students. Campaigns aimed at raising awareness about 

children’s rights to a safe education and the harmful effects of GCA can play a key role in reducing 

the occurrence of violence in schools. 



 
 

  
 
  

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Finally, the study suggests that future efforts to eliminate GCA in schools should be 

integrated into broader educational initiatives that promote peace, gender equality, and the 

empowerment of women and girls. By embedding these values into curricula, textbooks, and 

classroom practices, educators can foster a culture of respect and equity that prevents the 

occurrence of gender-centered violence and encourages positive academic outcomes for all 

students. 

 

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