Harassment: knowledge and perception of female medical and allied health sciences students from Peshawar, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Harassment is a pervasive issue impacting female students globally. In conservative societies like Pakistan, societal perceptions often undermine its severity.

Objective: To investigate the knowledge and perceptions of female medical and allied health sciences students regarding harassment at Rehman Medical Institute (RMI), Peshawar, Pakistan.

Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire on 151 female students. The questionnaire assessed the students' knowledge about harassment, experiences of harassment, and perceptions of the reasons behind harassment. Data were analyzed for descriptive and comparative statistics using SPSS 20, keeping p≤0.05 as significant.

Results: The study found that a significant proportion of female students (40%) had experienced offensive remarks from colleagues or seniors, and 64% had experienced online harassment. Nearly half of the students (48%) knew the definition of harassment, but knowledge regarding reporting mechanisms and the university's safety was low. Gender discrimination and a person's childhood environment were perceived as significant factors contributing to harassment.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the prevalence of harassment faced by female students in educational institutes and the need for interventions such as robust anti-harassment policies, awareness programs about harassment, and providing support services for victims.