Exploring gender-based harassment: A qualitative study of female drivers' experiences in Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

Background Gender-based harassment refers to unwanted verbal, non-verbal, or physical behaviours directed at women because of their gender. A safe and accessible road traffic environment is essential to ensure equitable mobility for women. In road traffic environments, harassment experiences may negatively affect women safety, mobility, and participation as road users. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of female drivers regarding harassment while driving in Tabriz, Iran and to identify the contextual factors shaping these experiences. Methods This is a qualitative phenomenological study exploring the female drivers' experiences of harassment. Semi-structured, individual, in-depth interviews were used for data collection. Participants were recruited using purposive criterion sampling. Colaizzi's seven-step method was employed to identify patterns and themes in participants statements. MAXQDA version 18 was used for data analysis. The rigour of the findings was enhanced using the criteria proposed by Guba and Lincoln. Results Based on the statements of 19 participants, the themes were clustered into five main categories, including general social culture about women's driving, positive effects of women's driving, factors contributing to harassment, types of harassment, and outcomes of harassment. Moreover, participants cited some recommendations to reduce harassment experienced by female drivers which were grouped into three dimensions of socio-cultural initiatives, family support, and legislation and law enforcement. Conclusions Female drivers reported experiencing verbal and non-verbal forms of harassment while driving. Participants believed that these experiences were associated with short- and long-term consequences such as fear, anxiety, reduced concentration, decreased driving confidence, and, in some cases, temporary withdrawal from driving. These results underscore the potential impact of harassment on female drivers' perceived safety in the traffic environment. Measures such as supportive legislation, effective law enforcement, public awareness initiatives, and family support may help to create a safer and more equitable environment for female drivers.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Heliyon, 2026 · DOI ↗