Gender Violence and Social Justice

This course encourages students to engage in critical thought about gender-based violence in the United States and to examine the various approaches to and theories of prevention efforts. The students will examine the meanings and nature of interpersonal and sexual violence, including violence against gender diverse people. In addition, this course explores the effects of being the target of violence, and an intersectional analysis of how racism, homophobia and transphobia play a role. Students will also learn about the historical meaning of prevention that focused on potential victims, such as the victim control model, risk reduction rhetoric, and self-defense classes. Furthermore, a critical analysis of the criminal justice system will be addressed. The final focus will consist of exploring national primary prevention programs and social justice efforts to end gender-based violence.