Women’s sexuality in a Brazilian mixed prison: power relations and multiple violence

Abstract

This article analyzis women’s sexuality in a Brazilian mixed prison, approaching the social and subjective factors that goes through the reality experienced. Six case studies were conducted with imprisoned women, and, as instruments, semi-structured interviews were performed. The data was organized from the following thematic axes: multiple violence in affective-sexual relationships; abandonment, repression and strengthening of relationships in prison; intimate visits; repression of sexual needs. The results evidenced the emphasis in the affective dimension of sexuality by the participants and multiple violence in their lives. The intimate visits, even if legally expected, have restrictions to be effectively performed. The way women experience sexuality in prison reflects the gender inequality, inhuman situation, gender and state violence in prison. In sum, it was demonstrated the primacy of surveillance and the difficulties to guarantee sexual rights in the prison institution, revealing the power relations in this context.