Tag: gender

Caste and Class Systems – A Sociological Interpretations

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By Kavita Dehalwar

Introduction

Human societies, since their inception, have organized themselves into hierarchies. Two fundamental systems by which people have been historically classified are the caste system and the class system. Each system structures social relations and individual identities differently, particularly in how they handle status: ascribed versus achieved. Understanding the difference between ascribed and achieved status helps us appreciate the dynamics of privilege, mobility, and inequality that persist across societies.

Caste System: A Structure of Ascribed Status

The caste system is a rigid, hereditary social order. It is most famously associated with India, but caste-like systems have existed elsewhere too, including in medieval Europe (feudal estates) and among certain African and East Asian societies.

Key Features of the Caste System:

  • Hereditary: Membership is assigned at birth.
  • Immutable: One’s caste generally cannot be changed over a lifetime.
  • Endogamy: Marriage occurs strictly within the same caste.
  • Occupation: Often linked to caste, determining the work one can perform.
  • Religious sanction: Often supported by religious or philosophical justifications.

Ascribed Status in the Caste System

Ascribed status refers to the social position a person is born into, without choice or effort. In a caste system, status is entirely ascribed. For example, being born into a Brahmin family (priestly class in Hinduism) bestows honor and authority regardless of personal achievement. Conversely, being born into a Dalit (formerly known as “Untouchable”) family imposes social stigma and exclusion, no matter the individual’s talents or efforts.

The caste system, therefore, limits social mobility almost completely, maintaining social stratification across generations.

Class System: A More Fluid Hierarchy

The class system, prominent in industrial and post-industrial societies (such as in Europe, the Americas, and parts of Asia), is based on economic position and other social factors like education and occupation.

Key Features of the Class System:

  • Economic Basis: Wealth, income, education, and occupational prestige are central.
  • Relative Fluidity: Individuals can move up or down the class ladder (social mobility).
  • Achievement and Merit: While inequalities exist, personal effort can change one’s social standing.

Achieved Status in the Class System

Achieved status refers to a social position that a person attains largely through their own efforts, choices, talents, and accomplishments. For instance, a person born into a working-class family who becomes a successful entrepreneur exemplifies achieved status.

Although class systems promote meritocracy — the idea that talent and effort should determine social standing — structural barriers like systemic racism, unequal access to education, and inherited wealth still make upward mobility difficult for many.

Thus, while class systems theoretically allow for mobility through achieved status, in reality, ascribed advantages (such as family wealth or social connections) still heavily influence outcomes.

Intersection of Ascribed and Achieved Status

In practice, caste and class characteristics often intertwine. Even in a class-based society:

  • Race, ethnicity, gender, and family background (forms of ascribed status) significantly affect life chances.
  • Achievements can be constrained or boosted by one’s ascribed traits.

Similarly, in caste societies undergoing modernization (like India), economic liberalization and education have created new opportunities for individual achievement, though caste-based discrimination persists in subtler forms.

Thus, no society is purely ascriptive or purely achievement-based — both factors usually coexist in complex ways.

Comparative Overview

AspectCaste SystemClass System
Basis of stratificationBirth and hereditary occupationEconomic position, education, and achievements
Social MobilityVery limitedPossible (both upward and downward)
Status TypeAscribedPrimarily achieved, but also influenced by ascription
Marriage PracticesEndogamy (within caste)Generally exogamous, though class endogamy still exists informally
Persistence across generationsHighMedium to High (depending on societal structure)

Conclusion

The concepts of ascribed status and achieved status are crucial to understanding social hierarchies. The caste system is emblematic of ascribed status, where birth predetermines one’s entire life trajectory. The class system, while more fluid and centered around achieved status, still reveals the lingering power of ascribed traits.

As societies evolve, the tension between inherited privilege and earned success continues to shape debates around fairness, opportunity, and justice. Understanding these dynamics is essential for envisioning a more equitable world where individual potential, rather than accident of birth, determines destiny.

References

Kosambi, D. D. (1944). Caste and class in India. Science & Society, 243-249.

Mukherjee, R. (1999). Caste in itself, caste and class, or caste in class. Economic and political weekly, 1759-1761.

Olcott, M. (1944). The caste system of India. American Sociological Review, 648-657.

Sharma, K. L. (1984). Caste and class in India: Some conceptual problems. Sociological Bulletin, 33(1-2), 1-28.

Ranadive, B. T. (1979). Caste, class and property relations. Economic and Political Weekly, 337-348.

Sharma, S. N. Differences Between Caste System and Class System.

Gender and Its Implications for Spatial Planning: Understanding the Impact

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By Kavita Dehalwar

Spatial planning plays a critical role in shaping the physical environment of communities, influencing how people interact with their surroundings and access resources and opportunities. However, the planning process is often influenced by various social factors, including gender. Gender refers to the social, cultural, and economic attributes and roles associated with being male or female, which can significantly influence how individuals experience and navigate spaces. Understanding the implications of gender on spatial planning is essential for creating inclusive and equitable environments that meet the diverse needs of all community members.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

Gendered Spaces and Access

One of the primary ways gender influences spatial planning is through the creation of gendered spaces. Gendered spaces are areas that are designed, perceived, and used differently by men and women due to societal norms, cultural practices, and individual preferences. For example, public transportation systems, parks, and recreational facilities may be designed with specific gender biases, impacting accessibility and usability for different genders. Women, for instance, may perceive certain spaces as unsafe due to inadequate lighting or lack of surveillance, limiting their mobility and access to public amenities.

Furthermore, the division of labor based on gender roles can influence spatial patterns. For instance, women often bear the primary responsibility for caregiving and household chores, which can affect their travel patterns and access to essential services such as healthcare and education. Spatial planning must consider these gendered dynamics to ensure that infrastructure and services are distributed equitably and efficiently, addressing the needs of all members of the community.

Safety and Security

Gender also plays a significant role in perceptions of safety and security within the built environment. Women, in particular, may experience harassment, violence, or fear of crime in public spaces, which can restrict their freedom of movement and limit their participation in social and economic activities. Spatial planning strategies such as urban design, lighting, and surveillance measures can help mitigate these risks and create safer environments for all genders.

Inclusive Design and Accessibility

An inclusive approach to spatial planning involves designing environments that accommodate the needs of diverse populations, including different genders, ages, abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Gender-sensitive design considers how spaces are used and experienced by men, women, and non-binary individuals, ensuring that infrastructure, facilities, and services are accessible and welcoming to all.

For example, public restrooms are often designed with binary gender distinctions, which can be exclusionary for transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals. Gender-inclusive design promotes the creation of gender-neutral facilities that accommodate diverse identities and preferences, fostering inclusivity and reducing stigma and discrimination.

Participation and Decision-Making

Gender dynamics also influence participation and decision-making processes in spatial planning. Women and other marginalized groups are often underrepresented in planning processes, resulting in policies and interventions that may not adequately address their needs and priorities. Engaging diverse stakeholders, including women, in decision-making processes can lead to more inclusive and responsive spatial planning outcomes.

Furthermore, empowering women as planners, policymakers, and community leaders can help challenge existing gender norms and biases within the planning profession, promoting greater gender equity in urban and regional development initiatives.

Conclusion

Gender is a fundamental aspect of spatial planning, shaping how individuals experience and interact with the built environment. Recognizing and addressing the implications of gender in spatial planning is essential for creating inclusive, safe, and equitable communities where all individuals can thrive. By adopting a gender-sensitive approach to planning and design, policymakers, planners, and stakeholders can work towards building cities and regions that reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of their populations.

References

Damyanovic, D. (2016). Gender mainstreaming as a strategy for sustainable urban planning. In Fair Shared Cities (pp. 177-192). Routledge.

Dehalwar, K., & Singh, J. (2015). Current State of Water Management System: Case Review of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. International Journal of Civil, Structural, Environmental and Infrastructure Engineering Research and Development (IJCSEIERD), 5(6), 35-40.

Dehalwar, K. Understanding the Dynamics of Peri-Urban Areas: Navigating the Interface Between Urban and Rural Realms.

Garcia-Ramon, M. D., Ortiz, A., & Prats, M. (2004). Urban planning, gender and the use of public space in a peripherial neighbourhood of Barcelona. Cities, 21(3), 215-223.

Malaza, N., Todes, A., & Williamson, A. (2009). Gender in planning and urban development.

McDowell, L. (1983). Towards an understanding of the gender division of urban space. Environment and planning D: Society and Space, 1(1), 59-72.

Rakodi, C. (1991). Cities and people: Towards a gender‐aware urban planning process?. Public Administration and Development, 11(6), 541-559.

Sánchez de Madariaga, I., & Neuman, M. (2016). Mainstreaming gender in the city. Town Planning Review, 87(5), 493-504.

Sharma, S. N. (2014). Participatory Planning in Plan Preparation. BookCountry.

Spain, D. (2014). Gender and urban space. Annual Review of Sociology, 40, 581-598.

Understanding Gender Dynamics in Development Planning: A Comprehensive Analysis

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by Kavita Dehalwar

Gender dynamics have become a central focus in development planning, reflecting a broader recognition of the significant influence gender plays in shaping societal structures, opportunities, and outcomes. The intertwined concepts of gender and development, gender and sex, gender sensitivity, and their impact on development planning are critical to fostering inclusive and sustainable growth.

Photo by Ollie Craig on Pexels.com

Gender and Development: Unraveling the Nexus

Gender and development refer to the relationship between gender equality and sustainable development. It acknowledges the diverse roles, responsibilities, and experiences of individuals based on their gender identity within socio-economic contexts. Development initiatives that fail to address gender disparities often perpetuate inequalities, hindering progress.

Gender and Sex: Deconstructing the Binary

While often used interchangeably, gender and sex represent distinct concepts. Sex typically refers to biological attributes such as anatomy and physiology, categorized as male, female, or intersex. In contrast, gender encompasses the roles, behaviors, expectations, and identities that society constructs around individuals based on their perceived sex. Understanding the fluidity and complexity of gender is crucial for addressing discrimination and promoting inclusivity.

Gender Sensitivity: A Lens for Inclusivity

Gender sensitivity involves recognizing, understanding, and responding to the diverse needs, experiences, and perspectives of individuals based on their gender identity. It necessitates challenging stereotypes, biases, and power imbalances embedded within societal structures. By adopting a gender-sensitive approach, development planners can design interventions that empower marginalized groups, promote equitable access to resources, and foster social cohesion.

Gender and Development Planning: Integrating Perspectives

Development planning involves the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies, programs, and projects aimed at achieving sustainable development goals. Gender mainstreaming, the integration of gender perspectives into all stages of planning processes, is essential for addressing gender inequalities effectively. This requires conducting gender analysis to identify differential impacts, engaging stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, and ensuring equitable participation and representation.

Examining Gender-Related Issues in Planning

Gender-related issues manifest across various dimensions of development planning:

  1. Economic Empowerment: Women often face barriers to accessing economic opportunities, including limited access to education, financial services, and property rights. Development planning should prioritize initiatives that promote women’s entrepreneurship, vocational training, and employment in non-traditional sectors.
  2. Education and Health: Gender disparities persist in education and healthcare, with women and girls facing obstacles such as early marriage, lack of reproductive health services, and cultural norms prioritizing male education. Development planners must prioritize investments in girls’ education, reproductive healthcare, and gender-responsive health programs to ensure equitable access to essential services.
  3. Political Participation: Women are underrepresented in political decision-making processes, limiting their ability to influence policy outcomes and advocate for their rights. Development planning should promote gender-balanced representation in leadership positions, implement quotas or affirmative action measures, and provide training on gender-sensitive governance practices.
  4. Social Norms and Cultural Practices: Harmful gender norms and cultural practices perpetuate inequalities and discrimination, particularly affecting marginalized groups such as LGBTQ+ individuals and indigenous communities. Development planners should engage communities in dialogue, awareness-raising, and capacity-building activities to challenge discriminatory beliefs and promote gender equality.
  5. Violence and Security: Gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue globally, undermining individuals’ safety, dignity, and well-being. Development planning should prioritize strategies for preventing and responding to violence, including legal reforms, support services for survivors, and community-based initiatives that challenge harmful attitudes and behaviors.

In conclusion, integrating gender perspectives into development planning is essential for promoting inclusive, equitable, and sustainable development outcomes. By addressing gender disparities and promoting gender equality, development planners can contribute to building a more just and prosperous society for all.

References

Chant, S. (1991). Gender, migration and urban development in Costa Rica: The case of Guanacaste. Geoforum, 22(3), 237-253.

Ghannam, F. (2013). Live and die like a man: Gender dynamics in urban Egypt. Stanford University Press.

Harris, M. T., Laks, J., Stahl, N., Bagley, S. M., Saia, K., & Wechsberg, W. M. (2022). Gender dynamics in substance use and treatment: a women’s focused approach. Medical Clinics, 106(1), 219-234.

Lind, A. (1997). Gender, development and urban social change: Women’s community action in global cities. World Development, 25(8), 1205-1223.

Thomas-Hunt, M. C., & Phillips, K. W. (2004). When what you know is not enough: Expertise and gender dynamics in task groups. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 30(12), 1585-1598.

Sharma, S. N. The Complex Reality of Delhi’s Slums: A Closer Look at Urban Informality.

Sharma, S.N., Kumar, A., & Dehalwar, K. (2024). The Precursors of Transit-oriented Development. Economic and Political Weekly, 59(14), 16–20. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10939448

An Insight into Public Space and Women in India

By Kavita Dehalwar

This article delves into the complex relationship between women and public space in India. It explores the historical context, cultural influences, and contemporary challenges that shape women’s experiences in public spaces. Drawing on academic research, governmental reports, and advocacy literature, this article aims to shed light on the various issues women face and the potential solutions to create more inclusive and safe public spaces.

Introduction:

Public spaces are vital components of any society, providing arenas for social interaction, economic activities, and cultural expression. However, women’s experiences in public spaces can be profoundly shaped by cultural norms, historical factors, and social expectations. This article examines the multifaceted nature of women’s engagement with public spaces in India, drawing on academic studies, government reports, and advocacy literature.

Historical Context:

To understand the present dynamics, it is crucial to examine the historical context. India’s rich history is marked by patriarchal structures and gender-based hierarchies that have influenced societal attitudes towards women’s mobility and presence in public spaces. Cultural norms, religious beliefs, and traditional gender roles have collectively contributed to shaping the expectations around women’s behavior in public.

Research Findings:

Numerous studies highlight the challenges women face in public spaces in India. A study conducted by [Author et al., Year] found that street harassment is a pervasive issue, with a significant number of women reporting experiences of verbal abuse, unwanted advances, and intimidation. Another study by [Author et al., Year] examined the impact of public transportation on women’s mobility, revealing concerns about safety, harassment, and lack of gender-sensitive infrastructure.

The study by Sharma (2014) titled “Urban forms in planning and design” provides insights into the intricate relationship between urban planning and the design of public spaces. Sharma emphasizes the importance of understanding urban forms in shaping the environment and influencing social interactions. This perspective is crucial when examining the challenges faced by women in public spaces, as the design and planning of urban areas play a significant role in creating safe and inclusive environments.

Dehalwar (Year) expands on the dynamics of peri-urban areas, highlighting the interface between urban and rural realms. Understanding the characteristics of peri-urban spaces is essential when exploring women’s safety in areas undergoing rapid urbanization. This aligns with Mahadevia and Lathia’s (2019) study on women’s safety and public spaces, which specifically focuses on the Sabarmati riverfront in India. The lessons drawn from this case study contribute to the broader discourse on urban planning and women’s safety.

Chhibber’s (2002) research delves into the political participation of women in India, emphasizing the role of the household and public space. The findings underscore the interconnectedness of private and public spheres, indicating that the challenges women face in public spaces are intertwined with broader socio-political dynamics. This perspective is reinforced by Fernandes (1997), who explores the intersections of gender, family, and working-class politics in India, providing a holistic understanding of women’s experiences.

Roy and Bailey’s (2021) study on safety, public space, and the male gaze in Kolkata contributes to the analysis by addressing the nuanced ways in which women negotiate safety. The study recognizes the impact of societal perceptions and the male gaze on women’s experiences in public spaces, adding a cultural dimension to the discourse.

Arefi and Meyers (2003) provide a theoretical perspective on what constitutes “public” in public space, drawing from the case of Visakhapatnam, India. This theoretical framework is relevant when examining the challenges women face in claiming their space within the public realm. The definition of public space and its accessibility are critical elements influencing women’s sense of safety and inclusion.

Government Initiatives:

Recognizing the need for safer public spaces, the Indian government has implemented various initiatives to address the issues faced by women. The “Safe City” projects in cities like Delhi and Mumbai aim to enhance security through increased surveillance, better street lighting, and the deployment of female police officers. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives remains a subject of debate, with critics pointing out the need for a more comprehensive and nuanced approach.

Challenges and Solutions:

While progress has been made, significant challenges persist. Cultural norms, inadequate law enforcement, and the lack of gender-sensitive urban planning continue to hinder women’s full participation in public life. Solutions require a multi-pronged approach, encompassing legal reforms, community engagement, and the integration of gender perspectives in urban planning. Additionally, fostering a cultural shift through education and awareness campaigns is crucial to challenging ingrained stereotypes and prejudices.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the analysis of these diverse studies underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach when exploring women’s experiences in public spaces in India. Urban forms, political dynamics, cultural perceptions, and the interplay between private and public realms are integral components that shape the challenges and opportunities for women in the public sphere. Addressing these complexities requires collaborative efforts from urban planners, policymakers, sociologists, and activists to create safer and more inclusive public spaces for women in India. The relationship between women and public spaces in India is a complex interplay of historical, cultural, and contemporary factors. While challenges persist, ongoing efforts by the government, civil society, and grassroots organizations offer hope for positive change. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of the issue and implementing comprehensive solutions, India can work towards creating more inclusive and safe public spaces for women.

References:

Arefi, M., & Meyers, W. R. (2003). What is public about public space: The case of Visakhapatnam, India. Cities, 20(5), 331-339.

Chhibber, P. (2002). Why are some women politically active? The household, public space, and political participation in India. International Journal of Comparative Sociology, 43(3-5), 409-429.

Dehalwar, K. Understanding the Dynamics of Peri-Urban Areas: Navigating the Interface Between Urban and Rural Realms.

Dehalwar, K., & Sharma, S. N. (2023). Fundamentals of Research Writing and Uses of Research Methodologies.

Fernandes, L. (1997). Beyond public spaces and private spheres: gender, family, and Working-class politics in India. Feminist studies, 23(3), 525-547.

Mahadevia, D., & Lathia, S. (2019). Women’s safety and public spaces: Lessons from the Sabarmati riverfront, India. Urban Planning, 4(2), 154-168.

Roy, S., & Bailey, A. (2021). Safe in the City? Negotiating safety, public space and the male gaze in Kolkata, India. Cities, 117, 103321.

Sharma, S. N. (2014). Urban forms in planning and design. International Journal of Research, 1(1), 7-16.

Sharma, S. N. (2016). Introduction to Sociology. New Perspectives in Sociology and Allied Fields, 1.

Should men wear makeup?

Makeup is gender less – simply an extremely incredible asset that can produce confidence.This isn’t about men needing to be female; it’s just about making the most ideal adaptation of ourselves. Be that as it may, there is as yet an enormous shame connected to men self-upgrading. I’m not saying each man should wear cosmetics, however the individuals who need or need it to help themselves feel great inside their own skin ought not be deceived. Nonetheless, numerous men feel the strain to look great and satisfy excellence guidelines, as well. We regularly hear phrases like ‘monitoring up’, ‘continuing ahead with it’ and being ‘solid and quiet’, and this has passed on men little space to reposition or rethink themselves in the public eye.

Be that as it may, numerous men feel the strain to look great and fulfill excellence guidelines, as well. We frequently hear phrases like ‘monitoring up’, ‘continuing ahead with it’ and being ‘solid and quiet’, and this has passed on men little space to reposition or rethink themselves in the public eye. We realize sexism harms ladies, yet we don’t talk as much about how sexism harms men. For what reason are men expected to be saved inwardly? We are largely people, we get nervousness and have self-perception issues as well.

Despite the decisions and your sex, the general public will consistently pass judgment and talk about you. You’ll never satisfy everybody, and that is OK. You weren’t brought into the world to if it’s not too much trouble, each second individual you meet.

Untangling Gender and Sex: Beyond He or She

It’s easy to fictionalize an issue when you’re not aware of the many ways in which you are privileged by it.

– Kate Bornstein

One can imagine many raised eyebrows at the idea of this distinction between sex and gender. Aren’t they the same; two names given to the same phenomenon? Yes, and No.

Yes, because these two terms are often used interchangeably by people at large. No, because thinking of the terms as meaning the same thing is an error. The terms ‘sex’ and ‘gender’ are closely linked, yet they are not synonyms. There is a subtle difference between the two as stated by psychologists and anthropologists across the globe. Today, let us explore how they are different.

The word sex has its root probably in Middle English which means “section” or “divide”. If we go further back, sex means the number six in Latin. On the other hand, the word gender is derived from Middle English which in turn is derived from Old French which is ultimately derived from the Latin word genus. Genus means “kind” or “type” or “sort”.

If we quote from the Medilexicon’s medical dictionary, we find two definitions of sex and gender respectively:

Sex is “the biologic character or quality that distinguishes male and female from one another as expressed by analysis of the person’s gonadal (gonad is an organ in animals that produces gametes, especially a testis or ovary), morphologic (internal and external), chromosomal, and hormonal characteristics.”
Gender is “the category to which an individual is assigned by self or others, on the basis of sex.” To put it in a nutshell, sex refers to biological differences while gender refers to socio-cultural differences. This will become clearer by way of examples. Sex and gender have different characteristics. Some features related to sex are – while males have testicles, females have ovaries; while males have penis; females have vagina, females get pregnant while males do not; females can breastfeed their babies, males cannot; at the time of birth, males tend to weigh more than their female counterparts; generally, males have deeper voices than females.

Some features related to gender are – women have long hair and men short; women contribute more to household chores than men do ; some cultures expect their women to cover their heads when they step out of the house while there is no such injunction for men; up till the twentieth century women were not allowed to vote in a number of countries (UK granted female franchise in 1928) ; some professions, like teaching and nursing, are considered to be more suitable for women while others like, climbing the corporate ladders, are more appropriate for men (women are now breaking these barriers); men are regarded as bread earners and protectors of women in the majority of cultures.

This means while sex is a natural or biological feature, gender means a cultural or learned feature – the set of characteristics that a society or culture defines as masculine or feminine. As stated succinctly by the French writer and feminist, “one is not born a woman, but becomes one”. We can extend this to mean that one is not born a man but becomes one, too.

While a person is born with a sex, gender is dictated by socio-cultural norms in which he or she finds himself or herself. Gender is not about being born with a penis or vagina but how we feel about ourselves, or identify with a particular group, men or women. Some people are transgender which means their gender identity is not aligned with their biological sex. A person born with a man’s body might identify more with women and vice-versa. Sexual identity is about our attraction to people of a particular sex. While it is largely true that opposite sexes attract, people of the same sex also experience attraction and hence terms like gay, lesbian, bisexual.

Needless to say, cultural norms vary and so do the gender roles. For example in India, it is normal for Sikh men to have long locks while in some matriarchal societies in Africa, women are supposed to provide for the family while men take care of the kids and household.

Similarly, the sexual differences among people cannot be categorized into two binary opposites. While females have XX sex chromosomes, men have XY chromosomes. There are some babies who are born with XO chromosomes (Tuner Syndrome) or XXY chromosomes (Klienfelter’s Syndrome). They are intersex which may have sex organs that appear to be somewhat female or male or both. A lot of times surgeries are performed on such babies right after their births so as to assign a particular sex to them. However, psychologists advise that such surgeries should be postponed till the babies grow up and can decide for themselves which sex they identify with more, male or female, and accordingly go for sex change procedures. Otherwise, they may experience an identity crisis which may lead to depression or even suicides.

In our culture, gender education is given to kids on the basis of their sex from an early age. While men are told that they need to be aggressive and not emotional (men don’t cry), women are told that they have to be feminine (don’t laugh loudly, learn how to cook, don’t study too much else who will marry you). However, such roles can prove to be a disadvantage for both male and female. What about those men who are fragile? Or those women who do not want to marry and bear children but to make a career? Hence, it is stands to reason that such choices should be granted to different sexes irrespective of the expected gender roles in order to ensure the fullest developments of their personalities in accordance with their innate abilities or desires.

Screenshot_20200729-141650_Gallery

In a nutshell, sex is what lies beyond your legs. Gender is what lies between your ears.

New Media And Reporting Gender Based Violence

Trigger Warning: Mention of Rape and Sexual Assault

New Media has also changed the style of journalism, such as the rise of online journalism, where facts, information, and reports are produced and distributed through the internet. News in the New Media era is enabled to spread more widely and rapidly. News content is now enriched by lots of digital elements such as images, embed videos, comment box. These elements make the information presented becomes more attractive. One of the salient characters of online journalism is its dependency on speed in delivering information. When we talk about the emerging trends in media, we cannot afford to overlook the role of online media in changing the scenario in the context of women’s issues. The content that the online media produces reflects the pattern of value the society. The prevailing attitude of society gets revealed through the way subjects dealing with women are treated by the media (Arpita Sharma, 2012). 

Media has the choice of acting as both, a protagonist and as a perpetrator-it can either reinforce the gender-based discrimination by portraying sensational and stereotypical images of women or it can provide balanced reportage that empowers women and not degrades them while exposing acts of gender-based violence. Rape cases and sexual assault cases are not a recent trend in the society but sensitive reportage and wide coverage by media while also bringing these issues forefront are relatively very new. 

Gender-based violence or GBV is violence that is directed against a person because of their gender. Both women and men experience GBV but the majority of victims are women and girls. GBV and violence against women are terms that are synonymous as it is widely acknowledged that most gender-based violence is inflicted on women and girls, by men. The issue of GBV reaches every corner of the world. The numbers of women and girls affected by this problem are shocking. According to the World Health Organization’s data from 2013, one in every three women has been beaten, compelled into sex or are abused. One in five women is sexually abused as a child, according to a 2014 report.

In coverage of GVB, several stereotypes are often perpetuated by the new media. These include that rape is similar to sex, that the assailant is motivated by female lust, that the assailant is perverted, crazy or a monster, that the woman provokes rape or assault, and that only women are only victims. Scholars have found that these stereotypes and myths are pervasive in media coverage of rape and assault cases. Not only the language and the framing of the headlines but also the visuals used in the articles regarding GVB play an important role in the general perception of these issues.

In Gender-Sensitive Indicators for Media (UNESCO, 2012), under Category B- Gender Portrayal In Media Content, B1.5- Strategic Objective 5 states the indicators for the coverage of gender-based violence. Three of them are-

  1. Use of non-judgmental language, distinguishing between consensual sexual activity and criminal acts, and taking care not to blame the victim/survivor for the crime 

2. Use of the term ‘survivor’ rather than ‘victim’ unless the violence-affected person uses the latter term or has not survived 

3. Use of background information and statistics to present gender-based violence as a societal problem rather than as an individual, personal tragedy 

Terms such as ‘victim’ or ‘survivor’ are often used to describe individuals who undergo these experiences. The term ‘victim’ reiterates feelings of helplessness and lack of female agency, while the term survivor connotes a sense of strength and resilience. However, the affected person should have a say in what to refer them as. The ‘victim’ terminology limits individual self-agency and identity. It is important to note that experiences of violence do not define the individual, but rather are a piece of a larger self-identity. Such labels focus on experiences of violence and presuppose an individual’s inability to change or undergo any personal development to transform their identity into a peaceful, empowered personality. 

Images of sexual violence in the media often depicts women as covering their face, being silenced by looming hands, teary faces, large shadows near the woman, are some of the visual examples. These images not only fuel the stereotypes of women as helpless and weak, but also these images are also extremely triggering for the survivors of sexual assault and rape. 

When media reports women who have been assaulted or raped as nothing but victims, society can disengage and fail to take the issue as a broader societal issue and fail to take responsibility for any individual or group action to change it. It is crucial then for journalists to report on GBV in an informed way and to have a good theoretical understanding of the roots of these gender based violence’s and what needs to change in society. Otherwise, they can do harm by perpetuating patriarchal stereotypes and falsehoods.