Genderization and Links with Illegal Armed Groups in Colombia

Abstract

This chapter presents qualitative research results on the relationship between gender socialization (genderization) and the joining of illegal armed groups in Colombia, through narratives of 21 male and 13 female ex-combatant guerrillas and paramilitaries, obtained through focus groups, in-depth interviews, and field diaries. The analytical perspective includes: constructionist social psychology, the theory of gender performativity and perspectives from technologies of the self The results show how certain gender patterns normalized during infantile socialization have a bearing on the future possibility of joining armed groups. They also show how participation in these groups strengthens belligerent subjectivities. The conclusions suggest psychosocial keys for disarmament, demobilization and reintegration processes, from an ethical-political perspective which combines gender and cultures of peace. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)