A Qualitative Study of the Female University Students’ Experiences on the Psycho-Social Consequences of Sexual Harassment

Abstract

In Pakistan, incidents of female sexual harassment are often reported, but there is a lack of reliable 
information on the context of the matter and its consequences. In this regard, this study focuses on 
female students studying at public universities in Lahore, Pakistan, who frequently use public 
transport and are subject to sexual harassment. They were asked about their experiences of 
harassment in public places. Using the qualitative method, data was gathered with the help of 
three focus group discussions, and conclusions were drawn using interpretative phenomenological 
analysis. Incidents of sexual harassment mainly occur on different public transport. We found that 
such incidents are also proven to be a big hurdle in the continuation of education for female 
students, apart from their deep effects on the social and psychological condition of young female 
students. The researchers found most of the respondents were afraid of reporting such incidents 
because of defamation of their character and less faith in the law enforcement agencies of the 
country. Awareness of existing laws in the country that protect women, particularly 
implementations of the laws, good governance, the positive role of law enforcement agencies, and 
a better conducive environment for female students specifically related to their mobility, can help 
reduce incidents of sexual harassment in the country.