Final Year Project

Project Title

Gender Based Violence, Guilt and Shame, and Mental Health in Pakistan

Description

My thesis is a study of Gender Based Violence in Pakistan, using published literature as well as primary research via qualitative surveys. The aim was to investigate guilt and shame in the experiences of both victimization and aggression i.e. in victims as well as in perpetrators. The study shows that sociocultural factors contribute to the development of these two emotions, e.g. an emphasis on conforming to strict gender roles. Further, shame and guilt, when experienced in the dynamics of such violence, can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms. The study suggests support strategies for assisting people in healing from their experiences.