An Analysis of the Experiences of Young Girls of Sexual Harassment in Public Places

One of the most prevalent forms of violence against women in public places is street harassment, especially in sexual form. This kind of harassment is common in public places such as streets, parks, cinemas and … and they have irreparable consequences including physical and mental harm to women. The study is to analyze the hidden sides of this kind of sexual harassment in public places from women`s perspective among those who are of that kind of experience. 18 students aged 23 to 37 years old in Tehran universities were picked through a targeted sampling method (snowball). The methodology of the study is qualitative with in-depth interviews and focused group discussion. The findings were classified into 4 main categories including harassment patterns, the impacts of outside elements, how to cope with, and insecure feelings. The results showed that isolated city spaces alongside crowded spots are places where the possibility of happening street harassments are high and both are the same equally dangerous and will impact anxiety, fear, presentiment and etc. According to the findings, rubbing, masturbating in public and exhibitionism are new forms of harassment that are so common between middle-aged and old men.