Yes, we can make a difference: evaluating the effectiveness of a brief intervention for preventing sexual harassment in higher education

Abstract

[eng] This study describes and assesses the effectiveness of a brief training intervention to prevent sexual harassment (SH) in higher education. The aim of the training is to reduce the acceptance of SH myths and to increase the sensitivity towards sexist remarks (piropos). A quasi-experimental pre-post study with Spanish university students (N=102) was carried out. Data were collected through an online survey before and after the face-to-face training took place. The results indicate positive and significant effects of the training. Repeated measures ANOVA showed lower myth acceptance and higher rejection of piropos after the training. Further, training increased rejection of piropos for male more than for female participants. This study expands the limited research on the effectiveness of SH trainings, particularly in the higher education context. Effective strategies for universities to develop SH prevention programmes and promote a safe learning environment are discussed. Keywords sexual harassment • training • evaluation • higher education Key messages • Sexual harassment myths such as the false belief about women exaggerating their claims contribute to the perpetuation of gender-based violence. • Results confirm a significant reduction in the acceptance of sexual harassment myths among participants following the brief training intervention. • Training changed the perception of sexist remarks: students perceive a harassing situation as more negative after the training by presenting higher rejection of piropos.