STRUCTURAL MACHISMO, PATRIARCHY, AND VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: AN ANALYSIS OF POWER RELATIONS AND GENDER INEQUALITY IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY

Abstract

This article analyzes the relationship between structural sexism, patriarchy, and violence against women, seeking to understand how historically constructed gender inequalities contribute to the reproduction of discriminatory and violent practices in contemporary society. The research adopts a qualitative and exploratory approach based on a bibliographic review of books, scientific articles, legislation, and official documents in the fields of Law, Sociology, and Gender Studies. The study focuses on the concepts of patriarchy, structural sexism, and gender-based violence, examining how these structures influence the organization of social relations and contribute to maintaining power asymmetries between men and women. The analysis shows that structural sexism extends beyond individual behavior, manifesting itself through social, cultural, and institutional practices that normalize gender inequality and hinder the effective protection of women's fundamental rights. It also demonstrates that violence against women is one of the most evident expressions of these unequal power relations, taking various forms, including physical, psychological, sexual, economic, and moral violence. The study concludes that addressing this phenomenon requires not only the effective enforcement of legal protection mechanisms, particularly the Maria da Penha Law, but also the strengthening of public policies, educational initiatives, and cultural transformations aimed at promoting gender equality, respect for human rights, and the deconstruction of historically entrenched patriarchal norms.