Upstanders to prevent gender-based violence: the role of men and educators

Identifier:  TDX:4432

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX4432

Authors:  Legorburo Torres, Guillermo

Abstract:
Gender-based violence (GBV), predominantly affecting women and LGBTI+ individuals across all social spheres, is often perpetrated by individuals adhering to traditional masculinity norms. Those who deviate from these norms, including defenders of victims, also face reprimands. The consequences extend beyond individual victims to encompass bystanders and communities at large. Bystander intervention, wherein witnesses become proactive upstanders, proves pivotal in changing such behavior. Inclusive involvement of those showing egalitarian values, including proponents of New Alternative Masculinities (NAM), educators, and community members, is crucial in building preventive socialization processes. The thesis aims to elucidate effective strategies countering GBV through a series of research papers published in reputable open-access journals. Employing a communicative methodological approach, it emphasizes the co-creation of knowledge through dialogue between researchers and participants, utilizing techniques like daily life stories, interviews, questionnaires, and social media analysis. The focus lies not only on identifying barriers but mostly on offering solutions to overcome GBV. Key findings include 1) the efficacy of NAM traits in neutralizing reprimands against non-traditional masculinity, 2) the role of social media in supporting victims and promoting consensual relationships, and 3) the transformative impact of bystander intervention training among educators. These educators, upon receiving training, become advocates for ending violence against LGBTI+ youth and propagate bystander intervention within educational settings. In essence, the thesis underscores the importance of inclusive, proactive approaches in combatting GBV, leveraging diverse voices and strategies to foster societal change.