Question

Define the term 'gender-based violence and state THREE systemic factors which might make it difficult for police officers to deal with gender-based violence cases in an appropriate manner.

Answer 1

Gender-based violence refers to violence based on gender, and police officers may face challenges in handling such cases due to gender stereotypes, lack of training, and institutional barriers.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gender-based violence refers to any form of violence that is perpetrated against individuals based on their gender. This includes violence that is directed towards women, men, or individuals who identify as non-binary or transgender. It can take various forms such as domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment, and female genital mutilation, among others.

Three systemic factors that might make it difficult for police officers to deal with gender-based violence cases in an appropriate manner are:

1. Gender stereotypes and biases: Police officers may hold biases or prejudices based on existing societal beliefs about gender roles or victim-blaming attitudes, which can impact their ability to perceive the seriousness of the violence or provide adequate support to survivors.
2. Lack of specialized training: Police officers may not receive comprehensive training on handling gender-based violence cases, including understanding the dynamics of power and control, trauma-informed approaches, and ensuring the safety of survivors during the reporting and investigation process.
3. Institutional barriers: Police departments may have limited resources, lack of policies and protocols specifically addressing gender-based violence, and inadequate coordination with other support services, such as shelters or counseling services, thereby impacting their ability to effectively respond to these cases.