GLS University’s Faculty of Commerce (GLS-FOC) has organised a successful workshop under the banner of the Collegiate Women Development Committee on the topic ‘Dating Relationship: Happily Ever After is not a Fairy Tale among Youth’. The session was conducted by the Dr. Priyanka Kacker, an associate dean of School Behavioural Forensics, at NFSU.
She began the session by describing how exploring the prevalent issue of violence against women, shedding light on the various forms it takes and the consequences it entails. The introductory section provides an overview of gender-based violence, debunking the misconception that violence is solely physical abuse. It highlights the gravity of this problem by listing different types of violence against women, ranging from domestic violence to child marriage and sexual harassment. This section sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of the topic.
Then the session moved forward into the crucial topic of intimate partner violence (IPV), explaining that it encompasses physical, sexual, and emotional abuse within intimate relationships. It explores the reasons why many women do not leave violent partners, touching upon factors such as fear, stigma, and hope for change. Additionally, it outlines the severe consequences of IPV, including physical injuries, mental health issues, addiction, and even death. This section underscores the urgency of addressing IPV and the need for support systems to aid those affected.
Then moving further she shows how to investigate dating violence, bringing attention to the signs and patterns of abuse within dating relationships, irrespective of gender or sexual orientation. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs, such as pressuring for commitment or threats of violence, and discusses contemporary issues like sexting. The report closes with a powerful message quoting, "At any given moment, you have the power to say, “This is not how my story is going to end”. It serves as a call to action, urging society to take a proactive role in ending violence against women and ensuring that "happily ever after" is a reality, not just a fairy tale.