Is this digital violence? First research findings at TecNM Queretaro campus

Abstract

Structural violence against women in Mexico is also experienced in digital environments. To find out how higher education students recognize this form of violence, a quantitative investigation was carried out. The aim was to design a socio-digital education intervention strategy capable of preventing and eradicating gender violence in digital environments. 318 surveys were carried out at the National Technological of Mexico Queretaro campus, with a male participation of 61%; and 39% women. Among the outstanding findings, it stands out that the university community has been a spectator of acts of digital violence in three large categories in which the largest number of victims or witnesses are identified: control, harassment and reception of offensive messages, which reproduce gender stereotypes, or who seek to harm people in varying degrees and ways. Although men and women claim to have been victims of digital violence, when the aggressors are inquired about, it is discovered that they are the ones who are most often attacked. The student community is interested in the criminal consequences of acts of digital violence; they are unaware of the routes of action in case of experiencing digital violence; They raise the need to implement informative workshops and talks on digital violence that involve cybersecurity and self-esteem. They also suggest support and listening spaces for victims of digital violence.