Early Educational Interventions to Prevent Gender-Based Violence: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Gender-based violence is a worldwide public health problem that is increasingly occurring at younger ages. This investigation aims to analyze effective interventions to prevent and to face gender-based violence beginning in early childhood in order to ensure quality education for all children through violence-free schools. Methods: This research has conducted a systematic review of interventions that have demonstrated a positive impact on the prevention and reduction of gender-based violence from early ages up to 12 years, inclusive, in schools. An extensive search in scientific databases (WoS, SCOPUS, ERIC, PsycINFO) was conducted from 2007 to 2022. Results: Thirteen articles were selected and analyzed in-depth to identify the success factors of these interventions, which (a) are integrated into the school curriculum; (b) promote active participation of students and community; (c) are based on scientific evidence; and (d) make relevant adaptations to a specific group and context. Conclusions: The programs analyzed have had a positive impact on raising awareness of gender violence, overcoming stereotypes, improving relationships in the classroom and reducing violent behavior, as well as empowering the most vulnerable people.

The Quest for Female Economic Empowerment in Sub-Saharan African Countries: Implications on Gender-Based Violence

“…Evidence from previous studies has shown that most have concentrated on the ability to minimise or decrease GBV, especially domestic violence, with fewer studies focused on the role of economic empowerment and emotional violence (Bhana et al 2021;Eger 2021;Nunbogu and Elliott 2022;Montserrat et al 2022;del Mar Rodas-Zuleta et al 2022;Freijomil-Vázquez et al 2022). Another strand of studies focused on the micro-level (Bashford-Squires et al 2022;Tsai 2022;Okpara and Anugwa 2022;Mcilongo and Strydom 2021), while other studies carried out systematic reviews (Keith et al 2022;Sabri et al 2022; van Daalen et al 2022;Villardón-Gallego et al 2023;Mbukanma and Strydom 2021). Further studies concentrated on health, music, and socioeconomic issues such as sexuality, water, sanitation, and hygiene (Nunbogu and Elliott 2022;Philbrick et al 2022;Zhou et al 2022;Mahamid et al 2022;Raftery et al 2022).…”