Violence against women and girls is a pervasive global problem, often deeply rooted in cultural stereotypes. Violence against women is more detrimental than the apparent physical effects; it also contributes to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, unwanted pregnancies, and poverty, while harboring long-term emotional and mental issues and significantly impacting the global economy.
Despite deeply rooted beliefs, people do adopt new attitudes or behaviors if they are convinced that such change can improve their lives. Effectively targeted educational tools can enable people to identify and think critically about destructive stereotypes, identify negative personal and community costs, and practice alternative behaviors. To address the issue of Violence Against Women, students at the Emergent Media Center at Champlain College, along with Population Media Center, are creating an electronic game based on three successful methods: the UNFPA toolkit of culturally-sensitive approaches to create change, the Sabido methodology of entertainment-education, and the FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football) "Fair Play" rules. Electronic games are a unique vehicle for reaching boys and young men. By profoundly shifting beliefs, stereotypes, and attitudes on gender issues, games can contribute to prevention of violence against women.
Visit http://www.breakawaygame.com for more information.