Factors associated with intimate partner violence against men in Kenya: an analysis of the 2022 Kenya demographic and health survey

Background Worldwide, intimate partner violence (IPV) is not only a human rights issue but also a public health concern that causes physical, social, emotional, and psychological harm to its victims. Given the limited research, this study aimed to determine the factors associated with IPV against men in Kenya. Methods In this study, we analyzed the secondary data from the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) 2022, comprising 4728 men aged 15–54 years. A two-stage stratified sampling was used to select the participants. Univariable and Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted using SPSS (version 29). Results The findings revealed that 74% (95%CI:72.2–75.8) of the men in Kenya experienced at least one of the four forms of IPV. Whereas 27.1% (95%CI:25.3–2.9) experienced multiple IPV forms (≥ 2). The largest percentage of men experienced controlling (71.9% (95%CI:70.0-73.7) followed by emotional (25.5% (95%CI:23.6–27.4), physical (7.5% (95%CI:6.5–8.7), and sexual IPV (5.0% (95%CI:4.2-6). Several factors were associated with IPV, namely, ethnicity, region, health care decision making, alcohol consumption, fear of partner, justified beating, presence of NCDs, perceived health status, education, age, age at first child, knowledge of the mother hitting the father, and media access. Conclusion This study showed that many men in Kenya experience various IPV forms, especially controlling. Several factors, such as cultural, sociodemographic, health, and behavioral factors, influenced IPV experiences. To reduce IPV, we recommend culturally sensitive interventions that address harmful gender norms, promote healthy decision-making, reduce alcohol-related harm, integrate IPV screening into healthcare, support younger parents, and build resilience among those exposed to family violence. Multisectoral collaboration among government, civil society, and communities is essential to reduce IPV and improve men’s well-being and relationships in Kenya.