Bio-psycho-social Effects of Street Harassment: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Researchers and policymakers have underestimated the impact of street harassment on the victims. This systematic review examines the psychological, sociobehavioral and physiological effect of street harassment on the victims. This literature review examined all the peer-reviewed articles in Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science with the following search terms – street harassment, eve-teasing, stranger harassment, harassment in public places, psychological effects, sociological effects, and physiological effects. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined. A total of 1668 studies were found in our search results and from that 29 studies were identified based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. The findings indicate that street harassment significantly impacts victims' psychological well-being, leading to increased levels of fear, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Victims often experience decreased self-esteem, heightened stress, and emotional distress, with long-term effects including persistent anxiety and changes in social behaviors to avoid further victimization. Physiological impacts include sleep disturbances, headaches, and digestive issues, potentially leading to chronic health problems. The socio-psychological impacts include significant alterations in social dynamics and behaviors, with victims often modifying their routines, attire, and social interactions to avoid harassment. Addressing street harassment effectively requires a multifaceted approach, including public awareness, supportive legal frameworks, and proactive social support systems.