Living in Fear: The Psychological Impact of Rising Sexual Violence on
Women in India
- Afreen Waseem,
- Naila Firdous,
- Shah Alam
Afreen Waseem
Aligarh Muslim University Faculty of Arts
Corresponding Author:afreenwaseem800@gmail.com
Author ProfileAbstract
In today's society, women are increasingly vulnerable to sexual
violence, whether at home, in the workplace, or in public spaces. This
study aims to explore the psychological consequences of sexual violence
among women aged 20-30 in northern India, with a focus on fear, stress,
and anxiety. A qualitative approach was employed, using semi-structured
interviews with a purposive sample of 20 women. Data were collected
through text-based online interviews, and thematic analysis was
performed to identify key patterns and insights related to the
psychological impact of sexual violence. The findings revealed that the
fear of sexual violence led to heightened stress and anxiety,
significantly affecting participants' mental well-being. Many women
reported behavioural changes such as avoiding certain locations and
altering daily routines to stay safe. The study also highlighted the
role of societal norms and family pressures in shaping how women deal
with these threats. This study highlights the urgent need for mental
health support for women coping with the psychological toll of sexual
violence. It also calls for societal and policy-level interventions to
create safer environments and challenge the patriarchal structures that
perpetuate fear and restrict women's freedom.