Efectos en la salud mental en mujeres de 20 a 30 años debido a la violencia de género en el transporte público de la ciudad de Quito

Abstract

This research focused on identifying and analyzing the effects of gender-based violence on public transportation in Quito on the mental health of women aged 20 to 30. This research was conducted using an exploratory and descriptive qualitative approach, which allowed us to obtain important information about this issue. The data collected were obtained through semi-structured interviews with a group of women aged 20 to 30 who frequently use public transportation in Quito. The subsequent data analysis allowed us to identify the different types of gender-based violence that exist on these modes of transportation, such as verbal aggression, sexual harassment, and inappropriate touching, in addition to other factors such as the exercise of power and gender inequality. Furthermore, we were also able to recognize the manifestations of gender-based violence in these spaces, as they can occur in any context and at any time, resulting in victims presenting different symptoms. As the World Health Organization (2020) indicates, genderbased violence contributes to generating significant symptoms such as behavioral changes, anxiety, and hypervigilance in women victims of these acts. In conclusion, this research and subsequent systematization helps us better understand the relationship between gender-based violence in public transport and the impacts on women's mental health.