NCJ Number
223519
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 14 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2008 Pages: 759-785
Date Published
July 2008
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This study, which was conducted in Catalonia, Spain, identified factors in the socialization of gender-related violence among adolescents in their heterosexual relationships.
Abstract
The study found a link between conformity to the masculine model of attractiveness and violent behavior. There was general agreement that the "model man" to which adolescents attributed more attractiveness is dominating, aggressive, lacks sensitivity, and exerts power in relationships. Some girls are attracted to such boys because they feel protected and secure in their company. Unfortunately, boys with these characteristics are more likely to be violent in their dating relationships. On the other hand, girls did not feel attracted to so-called "good boys," perceiving them only as good friends. These findings suggest the need to redefine and promote new and more egalitarian gender roles that are not linked to violence, insensitivity, and aggression. The study focused on heterosexual relationships among adolescents who attended secondary school (ages 12-16) in Catalonia. A total of 35 adolescents (21 girls and 14 boys) participated in the study. Information on features of gender-based attractiveness were obtained through focus groups, daily-life stories, and interviews. 2 tables, 7 notes, and 47 references