Promotion of emotional well-being in young People facing street harassment

Abstract

Street harassment has become a pervasive form of everyday violence that affects emotional well-being and perceptions of safety, particularly among young people. This study aimed to analyze the experiences of Nicaraguan youth regarding street harassment, considering its emotional impact, the coping strategies employed, and their perceptions of safety in public spaces. A qualitative study with a phenomenological design was conducted to understand the meanings and emotions associated with these experiences. The sample consisted of 16 young participants (8 women and 8 men) aged 18 to 22 years, selected through purposive sampling. Focus groups and in-depth interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis supported by Atlas.ti software. The findings revealed gender differences. Women reported feelings of fear, anxiety, insecurity, and vulnerability, whereas men expressed discomfort, anger, or indifference. Regarding coping strategies, women primarily relied on avoidance behaviors and seeking social support, while men tended toward resignation or occasional intervention. A gap in perceived safety was also identified: men generally felt safe in public spaces, whereas women restricted their mobility due to fear. It is concluded that street harassment undermines emotional well-being, restricts freedom of movement, and reinforces gender inequality in public spaces.