TITLE OF RESEARCH PROJECT
"Exploring Factors Contributing to Gender-Based Violence on Campus: An Intersectional Study"
BACKGROUND, RATIONALE, AND SIGNIFICANCE
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) on college and university campuses remains a pressing global issue, affecting students' mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. The prevalence of GBV reflects deeply ingrained societal norms and power dynamics that are often exacerbated in campus environments. Understanding the multifaceted factors that contribute to GBV is crucial for creating a safer academic environment and fostering gender equity.
The rationale for this research is grounded in the necessity to identify and address the various contributors to GBV in higher education settings. Existing literature largely focuses on individual incidents of violence, often overlooking broader systemic issues such as institutional policies, cultural attitudes, and the experiences of marginalized groups. This study seeks to fill this gap by conducting a comprehensive investigation that promotes awareness and informs effective interventions.
PROBLEM FORMULATION
Despite the increasing awareness of GBV in academic institutions, gaps exist in understanding the underlying factors that contribute to the prevalence and perpetuation of violence. This research will investigate the social, cultural, and institutional contributors to GBV on campus. Specifically, the study aims to address the following problem:
- What factors contribute to the prevalence of GBV on campus, and how do they interact with one another?
The overarching objective of this research is to uncover and analyze these contributory factors, leading to actionable insights for prevention and support. The primary research questions will include:
- What social and cultural norms contribute to GBV on campus?
- How do institutional policies and resources affect students' experiences and perceptions of GBV?
- What role does intersectionality (e.g., race, gender identity, sexual orientation) play in influencing experiences of GBV on campus?
RESEARCH OBJECTIVES, AIMS, AND QUESTIONS/HYPOTHESES
The primary aim of this study is to develop a nuanced understanding of the factors that contribute to GBV in higher education settings. The research objectives are:
- To identify social and cultural norms that perpetuate GBV.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of existing institutional policies related to GBV.
- To explore how intersectional identities influence student experiences of GBV.
Hypotheses might include:
- H1: Participants who identify with marginalized identities are more likely to report experiences of GBV.
- H2: Inadequate institutional support systems correlate with higher reports of GBV incidents.
RESEARCH DESIGN & METHODOLOGY
This study will adopt a mixed-methods research design, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches to gain a comprehensive understanding of GBV on campus.
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Research Approach: A mixed-methods approach is chosen to capitalize on the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative data, allowing for richer insights into participants' experiences.
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Variables: The focus will be on variables such as cultural norms, institutional policies, and intersectional identities.
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Generalizability: While qualitative findings may not be generalizable, quantitative data aims to reflect broader trends across the campus.
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Sampling Technique: A stratified random sampling technique will be employed to ensure representation across various demographics (gender, race, year of study).
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Respondents: Participants will include students from different year groups and backgrounds, aiming for a sample size of approximately 400 students for quantitative surveys and 20 participants for in-depth qualitative interviews.
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Data Collection and Permissions: Data will be collected through anonymous online surveys and semi-structured interviews. Permission will be sought from the institutional review board and relevant authorities.
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Recruitment: Respondents will be recruited through campus organizations, social media advertisements, and email outreach, ensuring to provide clear information about participation benefits and risks.
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Data Collection Techniques: Surveys will include closed-ended questions for quantitative analysis, while interviews will gather open-ended responses to explore deeper insights.
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Data Analysis: Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical software (e.g., SPSS), employing descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Qualitative data will be transcribed and analyzed thematically, focusing on recurring themes and narratives.
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Several ethical challenges may arise during the research process, including issues of confidentiality, informed consent, and potential psychological distress for participants discussing sensitive topics.
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Informed Consent: Participants will receive detailed information about the study's purpose, procedures, and their right to withdraw at any time. Consent forms will be obtained before participation.
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Confidentiality: Participants' identities will be kept confidential, and data will be anonymized to protect privacy.
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Sensitivity: Given the nature of the topic, care will be taken to provide support resources for participants who may experience distress during interviews.
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Institutional Approval: The study will be conducted following ethical guidelines set by the institutional review board, ensuring adherence to best practices in research ethics.
By addressing these ethical considerations, the research aims not only to contribute to academic knowledge but also to promote a responsible and sensitive approach to investigating GBV on campus.