“As young men we have a role to play in preventing sexual violence”: Development and relevance of the men with conscience intervention to prevent sexual violence
Outcomes: Gender‑Based Violence
View SourceKey Social Norms Take-aways This study illustrates how social norms tied to masculinity, leadership, and gender equity can be challenged through structured, reflective interventions with young men in positions of influence. It shows that gender-transformative programming can shift deeply held beliefs about power, control, and male privilege—especially when young men are engaged as allies in promoting non-violence and equity. Social norms change was most evident when participants were supported to critically reflect on their roles and take public stances against harmful behaviors.
Objectives To explore how a gender-transformative intervention influenced male student leaders’ perceptions of gender, power, and violence, and to assess the potential of such leaders to act as change agents in South African higher education institutions (HEIs).
Methods This qualitative study involved 15 male student leaders at a South African university. Data were collected through three focus group discussions, field notes, and 13 follow-up semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was used to examine how the intervention affected participants’ views on gender norms, masculinity, and their roles as leaders in addressing gender-based violence (GBV).
Intervention Details The study evaluated an adaptation of the One Man Can intervention—an evidence-based, gender-transformative program developed by Sonke Gender Justice. Delivered in a higher education setting, the adapted intervention used participatory workshops to facilitate critical reflection among male student leaders on issues of gender, power, violence, and leadership. The program aimed to equip participants with the tools to challenge inequitable norms and promote GBV prevention within their institutions.
Results Participants reported increased awareness of the connections between masculinity, power, and GBV. Many began to question previously accepted norms around male dominance, entitlement, and emotional suppression. The intervention fostered empathy, encouraged vulnerability, and created a sense of responsibility to model equitable behaviors. While some participants described internal conflict or resistance from peers, many embraced new perspectives and saw themselves as capable of influencing broader social change within their campus communities.
Conclusions The adaptation of the One Man Can intervention shows strong potential for shifting social norms among young male leaders in HEIs. By targeting those in influential positions and fostering critical self-reflection, gender-transformative interventions can challenge entrenched norms and empower young men to become advocates for gender equity and non-violence. Long-term engagement and institutional support are essential for sustaining this normative shift.
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