The SUN (Stand Up Now against Sexual Violence) project conducted a clinical trial in four schools in the Porto and Aveiro districts, involving over 200 adolescents.
Over ten sessions, young people learned to identify risky situations, deconstruct myths about sexual violence, and intervene safely as witnesses. The program aims to empower adolescents to play an active role in prevention.
Participants were taught to assess situations and choose appropriate responses, which may include supporting the victim, speaking to those exhibiting risky behavior, seeking adult help, or contacting authorities. 'Bystander' intervention focuses on safety and response appropriateness.
The nine-month clinical trial showed positive developments in participants, including increased knowledge of sexual violence, reduced acceptance of myths, greater empathy, and improved ability to recognize risky situations.
