aDolescents gEnder surVey, rEsponsible coupLes evaluatiOn, and capacity building Project in India (DEVELOP): a study...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sociology
• Gender Studies

Background:

• Domestic violence and assault (DVA) against women is a pervasive issue in India, impacting victim health and well-being.
• Existing evidence highlights various societal factors contributing to DVA, necessitating targeted intervention models.
• The DEVELOP study protocol outlines a phased approach to address gender-based discrimination and DVA in India.

Purpose of the Study:

• To plan future projects addressing gender-based discrimination and DVA against women and girls in India.
• To gather insights into adolescent gender equality knowledge and beliefs for intervention design.
• To evaluate the 'Responsible Couples' project for future program development and strategy.

Main Methods:

• A survey of adolescent boys and girls in rural Maharashtra on gender equality knowledge and beliefs.
• An evaluation of the 'Responsible Couples' project's effectiveness and challenges in 40 villages.
• Data collection, storage, analysis, and dissemination plans for DEVELOP phase 1 (2018-19).

Main Results:

• Adolescent survey data will inform targeted intervention designs for young populations.
• The 'Responsible Couples' project evaluation will provide evidence for improving relationship quality and violence prevention.
• Research findings will guide ongoing and future projects by partners SWISSAID and HMF.

Conclusions:

• The DEVELOP study provides a framework for evidence-based interventions against DVA in India.
• Insights from adolescent surveys and project evaluations will drive future gender equality initiatives.
• Dissemination through public engagement, conferences, and publications will support policy and programmatic advancements.