A ação dos guardas prisionais

: uma análise sobre o impacto dos papéis e expectativas de género

Abstract

This study seeks to understand the perspective of prison guards (GP) on how social constructions of gender influence the prison context, through a mixed methodological approach that includes semi-structured interviews and the application of the Gender Role Attitudes Scale. The results show a segmentation of roles between male and female GPs, often justified by arguments related to security or the sexual modesty of inmates towards professionals of the opposite sex - mirroring practices of benevolent sexism. Although the participants claim that there is formal gender equality in the profession, their discourses reveal some contradictions and ambivalence, compatible with the phenomenon of gender blindness, perpetuating inequalities in the context. The cross-referencing of quantitative and qualitative data shows that even participants with a more egalitarian attitude towards gender roles reveal more references in their discourse in line with a traditional perspective. Finally, there is a general lack of knowledge of gender equality policies and recommendations, which has implications for practice. The conclusion is that transforming the prison system involves more than legislation, it requires mandatory ongoing training, clear policies and a profound cultural change that challenges traditional gender roles and promotes new, truly equitable practices.

Date of Award	17 Jul 2025
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Raquel Matos (Supervisor)