Objective:

To analyse the perceptions and experiences of young people in Spain about sexual violence (SV), its possible causes, victims and perpetrators.

Method:

Qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with 22 young people between 18 and 24 years old. A qualitative content analysis was carried out.

Results:

In the juvenile narratives, the lack of definition and accuracy about what SV is stands out, except for mentioning rape, lack of consent and use of force in sexual relations. The girls, self-perceived as the main victims, also break with these narratives by providing a broader vision and gender inequalities related. In general, the most prevailed idea is that VS is perpetrated by men against women in heterosexual relationships inside and outside the couple. Regarding explanations, references coexist to both contextual factors (linked to gender inequalities and the social construction of sexual relationships) and behavioural factors (which includes the viewing of pornography). Tentatively proposals for improvement related to sexual and affective education emerge.

Conclusions:

In the perceptions of the young people, ambiguity seems to coexist with explicit references to the different ways in which it manifests itself and the influence of gender inequalities. Sex and life experience appear to influence these narratives. It is necessary to promote a more critical perspective on the social construction of SV and intimate relationships in the young population.

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