Schools as Pivotal Agents in Tackling Sexual Violence and Harassment Among Adolescents
Abstract
The study provides insights into the normative regulation of sexual violence and harassment in secondary education and shows how national and school documents are understood by professionals working in Slovenian secondary schools. It also highlights their understanding of sexual violence and harassment as a pressing social problem that affects the school environment. Data were collected in two phases. First, national documents on sexual violence and harassment were analysed, followed by a review of school documents from selected secondary schools in Slovenia. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with four head-teachers, four school counsellors, and four teachers from these secondary schools. Content analysis was used for data analysis. The findings suggest that, while formal frameworks are necessary, they are insufficient without institutional cultures that actively challenge gender hierarchies embedded in the hidden curriculum.
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References
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