Violence and gender inequality in women market vendors stories

Abstract

Introduction: Gender violence does not only affect the women who suffer it, since it causes colateral effects to children and other family members that deteriorates their physical, mental and emotional health.

Objective: To analyze gender inequality and gender-based violence against women.

Methodology: We carried out qualitative research of phenomenological type, applying indepth interviews with previously informed consent for its recording, transcription, analysis and interpretation.

Results: Physical, sexual, psychological, economic and patrimonial violence were identified in asymmetrical relationships as a result of sexism and the patriarchal system, which affects women’s quality of life and social development.

Limitations: Female participants were vendors from a local market and had limited time for the interviews, since the closing of their stands could cause economic losses.

Value of the study: Gender-based violence and gender inequality constitute a problem in Latin American countries that should be thoroughly studied for its identification and timely prevention.

Conclusions: Gender-based violence and gender inequality produces a negative impact not only on the lives of the women interviewed, but also on their families, however, every one of them tries to improve their life conditions and overcome adversities.