Violência doméstica contra mulheres nos discursos da masculinidade

Abstract

The study on men and masculinities is relatively recent in Brazil, but lately it is presenting itself as an important emerging area within gender studies. This paper analyzes the connection between masculinities and domestic violence against women. As men are the main perpetrators of domestic violence, this research seeks to understand how the construction of masculinity can influence their violent practices, by listening to speeches of men prosecuted by the Maria da Penha Law No11.340 / 2006. The qualitative research took place in the First Court of Domestic Violence Against Women in the city of Salvador – Brazil, where fifteen men were interviewed. As a result, it was possible to identify four categories of line of thought regarding domestic violence: a) Family Maintenance "traditional" and heteronormativity; b) Views on the woman c) Meaning of masculinity and macho; d) Conceptions on domestic violence against women. Thus, their speeches are based on hegemonic masculinity values, as the masculinity model is enforced by many different social institutions such as churches, schools, family and media. It is a model that reinforces the image of the aggressive man in power, who solves their problems with violence.