We are pleased to present a fascinating investigation conducted in Italy by Eumetra and commissioned by the anti-violence center Telefono Donna Italia. This research, which underscores the crucial work being done by Porta Aperta, the leader of our “Red Flag-Preventing Gender Violence” project, delves into the feelings and perceptions of young people aged 16 to 25 regarding violence, gender equality, and sexual and emotional education.
The study reveals that the most common fear among girls is physical assault, with 66% expressing this concern. Over six out of ten girls feel compelled to take precautionary measures, such as staying on the phone while walking home, avoiding public transport at night, and opting for more conservative clothing. In contrast, there is a significant gender disparity in views about responsibility for inappropriate behavior. While three out of ten boys believe that certain clothing invites offensive behavior, six out of ten girls report experiencing harassment regardless of their attire. Additionally, boys often see alcohol and drug consumption as factors that increase assault risks, whereas girls reject these as justifications for sexual assault.
The fear of a jealous partner is another major concern for girls, with 56% citing it as a potential threat. This fear leads nearly three out of ten girls to alter their clothing choices and social activities to appease their partners. In relationships marked by vulgarity and violence, boys and girls differ significantly in their responses. While both genders agree that women may remain silent out of fear of retaliation, about half of the boys interviewed place blame on women for staying with violent partners without reporting them, indirectly suggesting their responsibility for the violence.
The research also highlights differences in how boys and girls perceive the influence of media on women’s image. Four out of ten girls, compared to only one out of ten boys, believe social media negatively impacts women’s image. Over half of the girls feel that social media promotes sexual behavior, a view shared by only 20% of boys. Similarly, 40% of girls think trap music lyrics contribute to a disrespectful image of women, with 77% finding the lyrics disrespectful, while only 20% of boys share this sentiment.
A striking contrast emerges in views on gender equality. Half of the girls believe that gender equality is still a distant goal, particularly in areas like childcare, household management, and the workplace. Conversely, 60% of boys think significant strides have been made and that gender equality is nearly achieved. Emotional and sexual education also shows a gender divide, with girls feeling more informed and involved. For girls, emotional education means learning to respect others and manage feelings, primarily taught through the Internet, parents, and teachers. Boys, on the other hand, often rely on word of mouth and online sources, including pornography, for sexual education.
This survey underscores the urgent need for comprehensive information and awareness campaigns on equal opportunities, gender-based violence, and emotional and sex education. Schools and families, supported by experts, must play a pivotal role in this educational effort.
The Red Flag project aims to prevent violence by helping individuals recognize signs of danger, which should never be confused with love or interest, such as jealousy or controlling behavior. Informing and preventing are the key strategies to combat violence.
