Work

The Ethics of Care Under Threat: When Protectors Become Perpetrators—Patterns of Abuse and Ethical Breaches by Physicians Accused of Sexual Misconduct in a Brazilian State

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Sexual harassment perpetrated by physicians constitutes a critical form of institutional violence against women. This retrospective, cross-sectional study examined 39 ethical cases involving 37 male physicians judged by a Brazilian Ethics Tribunal between 2012 and 2022. Data were anonymized and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Barnard's test ( p < .10). Most violations occurred within the field of Gynecology and Obstetrics, revealing breaches in the physician–patient relationship and infringements on human rights. Although many cases were dismissed for insufficient evidence, confirmed infractions resulted in severe sanctions. Findings underscore the urgency of ethical training and protective protocols to prevent harassment.

Source: Violence Against Women

DOI: 10.1177/10778012251384624

Authors: Renata Bittar Britto Arantes, Alanna Gomes da Silva, Mónica Maria Bessa Correia, Guilherme Augusto Veloso, Rui Manuel Lopes Nunes

Institutions: Universidade do Porto, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Universidade Federal Fluminense

Language: English

Topic: Sexual Assault and Victimization Studies

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Gender equality, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650