Effects of a program on knowledge and beliefs about violence against women in the couple mothers

Abstract

A program of strengthening knowledge and change of beliefs about violence against women within the couple was elaborated and assessed the effects on mothers of the Ferreñafe province (Lambayeque-Peru). There were 83 participants, whose ages ranged from 18 to 76 years. With one group pretest-posttest design was used. Comparative analysis found significant differences in knowledge about violence against women in relationships (t = 5.89; p < .01). Also, in regard to beliefs, significant differences were detected in the factor acceptance of the traditional stereotype and misogyny (t = 8. 22; p < .01), blaming women victims of abuse (t = 9.69; p < .01), acceptance of violence as a suitable strategy for the solution of problems (t = 9. 66; p < .01) and minimization of violence against women as a problem and desculpabilizacion of the perpetrator (t = 5. 99; p <. 01). The findings show increased knowledge about violence against women in the couple and decreased misconceptions regarding this type of violence, which confirmsthe effectiveness of the program.