Hernández, W. (2026). “Playing safe” against gender-based violence: An impact evaluation of a gender-transformative soccer-based program. Journal of Child and Family Studies.

Abtract

This study by SVRI Grant Partner from Peru (2023) assesses the effects of Playing Safe (Jugando Seguros), a soccer-based intervention in Lima, Peru, on gender norms, bystander behaviour, and partner violence. The program comprised 33 weekly socio-sport sessions delivered over eight months to female and male children and adolescents aged 9–16, randomly assigned to treatment or control conditions (no intervention). Sessions addressed emotions, gender stereotypes, sexuality, and gender-based violence (GBV), with an emphasis on challenging harmful norms and fostering safe spaces. The intervention reduced partner violence experienced by female adolescents (-75%), highlighting the importance of integrating socioemotional skills and a gender-transformative approach into sports for development to mitigate GBV.