Key Social Norms Take-aways This evaluation highlights that individual-level shifts in gender norms are possible when young men are engaged in safe, reflective, and participatory group settings. The intervention catalyzed changes in attitudes and self-perceptions around masculinity, violence, and relationships. However, these internal shifts were constrained by broader social pressures—community norms lagged behind, limiting young men’s ability to act on their evolving beliefs. The findings underscore the importance of integrating peer, family, and community reinforcement to support young men in challenging harmful gender norms.
Objectives To assess the process and impact of a community-based gender equality intervention targeting young men in rural Rajasthan, with the goal of shifting gender attitudes and norms, improving relational behaviors, and reducing gender-based violence.
Methods A mixed-methods design combined pre-post quantitative surveys with a non-randomized comparison group, alongside rich qualitative data collection. Surveys included 142 young men in intervention sites and 144 in comparison sites, capturing changes in gender attitudes, behaviors, and perceived norms. Qualitative methods included focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and ethnographic observations with participants, facilitators, and community stakeholders to examine implementation, context, and mechanisms of change.
Intervention Details The intervention was implemented by the Centre for Health and Social Justice (CHSJ) and consisted of 15 interactive group sessions with young men aged 15–24. Facilitated by trained male mentors, the curriculum explored masculinity, gender-based violence, sexuality, relationships, and sexual health. It aimed to foster critical reflection, emotional expression, and peer solidarity. Community engagement activities—including family meetings, public discussions, and street plays—were used to create a broader enabling environment for norm change.
Results Quantitative data showed statistically significant improvements in gender-equitable attitudes, communication in relationships, and rejection of violence among young men in intervention sites. Participants expressed greater comfort discussing sexual health and gender issues. However, behavior change was uneven and often limited to private or peer-group settings. Qualitative findings highlighted that while young men internalized new perspectives, they felt constrained by community expectations and feared social backlash. The program created safe spaces for dialogue but struggled to scale these shifts beyond individual participants.
Conclusions The study illustrates that norm change efforts with young men can generate meaningful shifts in gender beliefs and aspirations—but these changes are fragile without structural and social reinforcement. To sustain progress, such interventions must expand beyond isolated groups and build linkages with families, schools, and community leaders. Investments in facilitator training, long-term mentorship, and embedded community strategies are essential. Norm change is relational and collective; programs must be designed to shift the broader ecosystem, not just individual attitudes.