Stepping Stones - HIV Prevention and Gender Violence Reduction
Stepping Stones, created by Dr. Alice Welbourn in 1994, is the longest-used HIV and gender program globally, implemented in 100+ countries. The participatory training uses role-playing, drama, and peer discussion to challenge social norms and foster equitable relationships. Communities divide into four peer groups (young women, young men, older women, older men) who meet separately then present to the larger community ("fission and fusion"). A randomized controlled trial found: 38% reduction in male perpetration of intimate partner violence; 33% reduction in HSV-2; significant improvements in condom use, HIV testing, and reduced concurrent partners. Topics include communication skills, gender roles, IPV, transactional sex, and condom negotiation. WHO recommends Stepping Stones for GBV prevention. Revised in 2016; combined with "Creating Futures" economic empowerment shows enhanced results.
Behavior Goal
Reduce intimate partner violence perpetration; improve communication and relationship skills; promote HIV-protective behaviors; transform gender attitudes and reduce controlling behaviors
Target Audiences
Methods & Approaches
Channels
Implementers & Partners
- Salamander Trust
- Multiple implementing partners globally
Donors & Sponsors
- Multiple donors
Key Takeaways
- 1Peer groups by age/gender create safe spaces for sensitive discussions
- 2"Fission and fusion" builds bridges of understanding across generations and genders
- 3WHO-recommended for GBV prevention - strong evidence base
- 438% reduction in male IPV perpetration demonstrates behavior change
- 5Combined with economic empowerment (Creating Futures) shows synergistic effects