Campus Voices: University Students’ Awareness of Gender-based Violence Against Women, Girls, and Children

Abstract

Gender-based violence (GBV), closely used interchangeably with violence against women (VAW), violence against women and girls (VAWG), and violence against women and children (VAWC), are global problems and harmful acts disproportionately affecting women and girls, including children. These pervasive issues encompass various forms of physical, sexual, psychological, and socioeconomic violence. This study aimed to determine the degree of GBV awareness among the selected university students. It also aimed to explore the differences in their GBV awareness when grouped according to sex and age. The study involved 112 students from Ifugao State University (IFSU) – Tinoc Campus, Ifugao, Philippines. Quantitative analysis was done on gathered data using the survey method and a self-developed questionnaire. Results show that the university students were extremely aware of all the forms of GBV. They were most aware on physical violence, followed by sexual, psychological, and socioeconomic violence. This indicates progress in societal attitudes and educational efforts, suggesting that they are informed, engaged, and sensitive to GBV issues. Based on sex, there were no significant differences in the university student’s awareness of all GBV forms. When it comes to age, there were no significant differences in their GBV awareness of physical, psychological, and socioeconomic violence, except for sexual violence. The lack of significant differences may suggest that the university students, regardless of their sex or age, share a common understanding and recognition of the importance of addressing and preventing GBV. It may indicate that the campus’ educational efforts and awareness campaigns have successfully raised their GBV awareness, effectively reaching and resonating with the university students of both sexes and age groups. Considering the results, the researchers encourage continuing ongoing efforts in education, advocacy, and commitment to translate this awareness into tangible steps towards a more equitable and violence-free society to create lasting positive change.