Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2025

Establishment of Rat Models Mimicking Gender-affirming Hormone Therapies
Published on: January 10, 2025
Community Health Agents Dismantling Gender Norms in a Machismo Society
Elizabeth M Allen1, Michael J Van Skiba1, Ariel Frisancho2
1St Catherine University, Public Health, Saint Paul, MN, USA.
Abstract:
BackgroundCommunity health agents (CHAs) play a crucial role in healthcare delivery and can also impact societal gender norms. This study aims to understand CHAs' perceptions of gender roles and norms to identify long-term strategies for women's empowerment.MethodsWe conducted 90-min focus group discussions (FGDs) among CHAs in Peru. FGDs illuminated women's perceptions of gender roles and how to empower women in communities.ResultsIn total, 53 CHAs participated across six FGDs. CHAs noted that women face significant barriers, are treated disrespectfully, and relegated to domestic roles. Ideal gender norms were described as having access to education, increasing voice, inclusion in decision-making, and independence. Changing gender norms requires that men, women, families, and communities support women's progress in society.ConclusionsCHAs are in a unique and powerful position to drive social change. Understanding CHAs perceptions can help develop effective strategies for women's empowerment.
Related Concept Videos
Socioemotional Experience and Gender Development
Horney's Sociocultural Approach
Conduct Disorder
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Social Scripts

