The role of digital and e-health literacy in preventing violence against women

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relationship between digital entrepreneurship, health literacy, and social awareness in combating violence against women. The research analyzes individuals’ modes of accessing information, their capacity to utilize digital health information, and the variations observed according to demographic characteristics. The study was conducted with 160 female participants from various age, education, and occupational groups residing in Paşaalanı District of Balıkesir Province. Data were collected using the Digital Awareness Scale, the E-Health Literacy Scale, and a demographic information form developed based on the literature. Findings reveal that participants have made digital technologies an integral part of their daily lives. While 91.9% of the participants reported using at least one mobile application every day, only 13.7% stated that they actively used digital support applications for women. This indicates a significant gap between technological access and actual awareness or utilization. Moreover, participants’ digital awareness levels were high (𝑋 ̄=3.9–4.1), whereas their e-health literacy levels were moderate (𝑋 ̄=3.1–3.7). Based on the research findings, participants strongly agreed that solving social problems is everyone’s responsibility (𝑋 ̄=4.46) and that helping disadvantaged groups (𝑋 ̄=4.46) is a fundamental social principle. However, trust in online health information sources remained relatively low (𝑋 ̄=3.32). In conclusion, participants demonstrated high digital awareness but moderate e-health literacy levels. The findings suggest that digital entrepreneurship can be more effective in combating violence against women when integrated with social responsibility and awareness. Accordingly, the study recommends developing educational, awareness-raising, and policy programs aimed at strengthening digital health literacy and social participation.