Critical-emancipatory educational intervention through games to face gender violence

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Public Health
• Education

Background:

• Gender violence remains a significant societal issue requiring specialized professional training.
• Existing educational methods may not adequately equip professionals to address the complexities of gender-based violence.
• Innovative approaches are needed to enhance the skills and critical awareness of frontline workers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the effectiveness of an educational intervention using the game 'Violetas'.
• To assess the impact of the game on the qualification of professionals fighting gender violence.
• To explore how the intervention influences professionals' understanding and practice regarding gender-based violence.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study involving 28 professionals from intersectoral services assisting women in situations of violence.
• Data collection through Critical-Emancipatory Workshops in three Brazilian capitals.
• Thematic content analysis of collected data using specialized software.

Main Results:

• Participants identified sexist patterns, pornography, and sexual diversity as key areas for intervention.
• Professionals suggested orientation actions, individual/group assistance promotion, and service network consolidation.
• The intervention highlighted the need for targeted actions to address gender violence comprehensively.

Conclusions:

• The 'Violetas' game intervention was perceived as playful, fostering engagement through its game-based approach.
• The intervention proved critical, enabling professionals to reflect deeply on gender violence issues.
• The approach was emancipatory, empowering professionals to rethink their practices and improve their qualifications to combat gender violence.