Identifier

etd-10052015-082040

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Education

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

This purpose of this research is to examine the critical issue of intimate partner violence and to explore a how non-battering “well-meaning men” can help to end this violence against women. Domestic violence has been primarily considered a women’s issue, and current efforts to prevent this violence have been led mostly by women. In spite of these efforts, violence against women still persists and “well-meaning men” have not been part of a proactive solution. This growing movement to engage men in preventing violence against women, empowers men to learn about and identify the issues that support a culture that tolerates violence against women. Violence against women is deeply rooted in our laws, history and society. Sexism, gender stereotypes, male privilege, patriarchy, and misogyny are the foundation that supports this violence (Bunch, 2007).Though most men do not abuse women, Flood (2001) believes that all men should be involved in prevention efforts, because when violence against women happens, it is mostly perpetrated by men. This effort to re-educate men is a grass-roots movement that is gaining popularity; however, there has been little research and publication on best practices for an effective delivery system. The research question that guided this study was: How can we effectively engage “well-meaning men” to prevent violence against women? To transition this social change philosophy into a teachable program, a curriculum was developed using Social Norms, Primary Prevention, Adult Learning and Feminist theories, and a qualitative study was piloted over seven weeks with four non-violent incarcerated African American Men. Observations, significant events, findings, as well as responses to open direct questions and a prompted reflection question, were documented. Participant comments and researcher observations documented during the sessions showed that some aspects of the program were effective. Obstacles and recommendations for further research are also reported.

Date

2015

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Secure the entire work for patent and/or proprietary purposes for a period of one year. Student has submitted appropriate documentation which states: During this period the copyright owner also agrees not to exercise her/his ownership rights, including public use in works, without prior authorization from LSU. At the end of the one year period, either we or LSU may request an automatic extension for one additional year. At the end of the one year secure period (or its extension, if such is requested), the work will be released for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Fasching-Varner, Kenneth

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_dissertations.1838

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Education Commons

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