%0 Journal Article
%T DHEERA reaching the young, a novel approach addressing gender-based violence in India
%J International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics
%D 2023
%A Kumari, S. Shantha
%A Suman, B. Aruna
%A Kiranmai, D.
%A Bhardwaj, Ajey
%V ePub
%N ePub
%P ePub-ePub
%X OBJECTIVE: To understand, build capacities, give guidance, and support school-going adolescent boys and girls on gender stereotypes and violence against women (VAW) and to assess the role of educational training in improving knowledge, attitudes, and practice to stop VAW. <br><br>METHODS: An educational interventional study was conducted for a period of 18 months across schools in India, involving boys and girls studying in grades 9-12. Assessment of the program's effectiveness on influencing young minds in breaking the taboos surrounding gender stereotypes and stopping VAW was completed through a pre-test and post-test, consisting of 12 scenario-based questions. <br><br>RESULTS: In all, 8931 participants (64% girls and 36% boys) from 26 states in India submitted their pre-test, post-test, and feedback forms. Participants showed improved clarity and comprehension on issues surrounding VAW/gender-based violence. There was a significant improvement in the knowledge on what actions can be taken and whom to approach for cases related to VAW/gender-based violence. The post-test survey showed a high level of commitment to overcoming gender stereotyping and stopping VAW. <br><br>CONCLUSION: This unique nationwide study demonstrated the effectiveness of an educational intervention that led to improved knowledge, attitude, and commitment towards stopping VAW. A large-scale program can be self-sustaining when it is embedded in the schools responsible for shaping young minds.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>
%G en
%I Elsevier Publishing
%@ 0020-7292
%U http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ijgo.15120