About Us
We are a research line dedicated to advancing knowledge, prevention and intervention in gender-based violence through interdisciplinary, evidence-based and socially engaged research.
We examine how gender norms, masculinities, power relations and social inequalities shape violence, relationships and wellbeing across the life course. Our research combines scientific rigour with applied impact, contributing to improved professional practice, public policy and social transformation toward gender equality and violence-free societies.
Our mission
To generate rigorous, socially relevant and transformative knowledge to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, promote gender equality and foster healthy, non-violent and resilient relationships.
Through interdisciplinary and applied research, the group seeks to understand how gender norms, masculinities and social inequalities influence violence and wellbeing, and to translate this knowledge into evidence-based interventions, professional practice and public policy.
What we research
We study gender-based violence in its multiple forms, as well as the social, relational and cultural processes that sustain or prevent it. Core research areas include:
- Intimate partner violence and domestic violence
- Sexual and sexualised violence
- Technology-facilitated and digital violence
- Violence in adolescent and youth relationships
- Violence affecting vulnerable populations, including women with disabilities
- Gender socialisation, masculinities and caring fatherhood
- Risk, safety and prevention across the life course
- Myths of romantic love and their role in normalising inequality, control and violence
- Couple resilience, healthy relationship dynamics and protective relational factors
Objectives
GEMA’s work is guided by five interconnected objectives:
- Advance scientific knowledge
- Prevent and reduce gender-based violence
- Promote healthy, equitable and resilient relationships
- Strengthen professional and institutional capacity
- Inform policy and social change
Our approach
We apply an interdisciplinary and evidence-based approach integrating psychology, social sciences, education, gender studies and public health.
Our research combines prevention, behavioural and social change, programme evaluation and the development of innovative methodologies, using participatory and co-design approaches with professionals and communities. The group promotes healthy, equitable and resilient relationships as a central component of violence prevention.
Our Team
