Gender-based violence amongst first responders in training and work-place settings: a scoping review
Principal Investigator: Jennifer Jasper
Research Team: Dr. Becky Donelon, Alyssa Handfield
Project Dates: December 2022 to December 2024
Project Funding: $30,000
Project Summary:
The scoping review explores gender-based violence (GBV) in the training and work environments of paramedics, police, and firefighters鈥攑rofessions historically male-dominated and hierarchical. The review examines the prevalence of GBV, its root causes, and its impact on gender diversity and equality within these fields. By synthesizing research and gray literature, the project provides insights to guide policy changes and future research, aiming to improve gender diversity and reduce violence across first responder professions, from entry-level education to full-time employment.
Outcomes and Benefits:
The project reveals significant findings regarding gender-based violence (GBV) in first responder workplaces, highlighting that physical and sexual violence is a pervasive issue, often stemming from interactions with patients and clients. The existing workplace culture normalizes bullying, discrimination, and microaggressions, privileging a white male archetype, which perpetuates violence and hinders accountability. Notably, gaps in data-tracking systems obscure the full extent of GBV incidents and the context in which they occur, leading to a culture of silence that discourages reporting due to fears of career repercussions. This environment disproportionately impacts women, who, despite their commitment to the profession, often find themselves sidelined into less prestigious roles and face performance disparities due to male-centric policies and equipment. The implications of GBV extend beyond individual experiences, posing serious risks to organizational culture, professional competence, and public safety. Addressing these issues necessitates developing educational programs on GBV, implementing robust reporting mechanisms, and fostering cultural change that emphasizes gender equity in leadership and strategic planning.
Funding and Support: This project draws on research supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). It is funded through a SSHRC Knowledge Synthesis Grant (KSG), launched in collaboration with Women and Gender Equality Canada, to examine and synthesize existing knowledge on gender-based violence.
Project Status: Completed
Deliverable:
Gender-based violence amongst first responders in training and work-place settings: a scoping review is supported in part by funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.
