Using “Our Brave Voice”: A Holistic Family Intervention to Reduce Gender-Based Violence in an Indigenous Guatemalan Community

Abstract

Gender-based violence is a threat to the well-being of Guatemalan women and girls. A holistic family-based intervention that included healing and empowerment workshops and therapy for survivors was enacted for 30 families (mothers, fathers, and children) of an Indigenous Guatemalan community. Quantitative measures revealed more egalitarian gender role attitudes and less emotional dysregulation after the program than on pretests. Self-efficacy, self-esteem, emotional regulation, and psychological well-being decreased during this period. Focus groups revealed themes of mutual respect, better gender relations, women's and girls’ use of voice, joyfulness in the workshops, better family communication, a focus on children's future well-being, and recognition of women's rights. The findings imply that a family-centered, multifaceted, and culturally grounded intervention can foster safety and harmonious relationships within families and communities.