Educate to heal: resilience as a result of emancipatory educational processes

Abstract

Psychological violence leaves deep scars on the emotional and social lives of those who suffer from it, affecting their self-esteem, autonomy, and voice. This research analyzes how education, when based on emancipatory principles, can become a space for healing and personal reconstruction. The study focused on female university students who have experienced psychological abuse and find empowerment in their academic training. The objective was to explore how critical educational practices—sustained by dialogue, reflection, and respect—foster resilience and allow for overcoming the silencing generated by abuse. The methodology used was mixed, with in-depth narrative interviews, allowing access to subjective accounts of transformation. A brief survey was also used to gather data related to the research. The results reveal that empathetic teachers, participatory methodologies, and inclusive educational environments contribute to the recovery of self-esteem, the strengthening of identity, and the reconstruction of life plans. Education, in this context, becomes a healing tool that helps redefine pain and recover voice. It is concluded that emancipatory educational processes are key to supporting those who have experienced psychological violence, facilitating paths to resilience, freedom, and personal dignity.