Perceptions of Female University Students on Violence Against Women in Peru: An Analysis Using ATLAS.ti Web

Abstract

This study analyzes the perceptions of female university students in Peru regarding violence against women, aiming to identify the factors that contribute to its normalization, assess the effectiveness of governmental responses, and explore the beliefs that justify its acceptance. A phenomenological approach and a qualitative design based on discourse analysis using ATLAS.ti Web were employed. The sample consisted of 11 students from a public university in Lima, selected through convenience sampling. The results reveal that gender-based violence remains accepted in certain contexts due to the influence of deeply rooted sociocultural beliefs. Additionally, a widespread perception of inefficacy in governmental policies was identified, attributed to poor implementation and monitoring. Furthermore, the concept cloud analysis showed that violence is primarily perceived in family and intimate settings, where emotional and economic dependence hinders reporting and access to justice. The study concludes that strengthening educational strategies in the university environment is essential to deconstructing narratives that perpetuate violence. Moreover, it recommends optimizing protection mechanisms and improving case monitoring to ensure an effective state response. Finally, it emphasizes the need for multidimensional interventions that promote women's empowerment and transform the social structures that sustain gender inequality..