Patterns of Intimate Partner Violence Surrounding the Economic Downturn

• In Event: Social Contexts of Teen Dating Violence and Intimate Partner Violence

Abstract

Whereas the recent recession has been well documented, we know less about the consequences of the economic downturn for the nature and patterning of violence. This study investigates links between the 2008 economic downturn and intimate partner violence (IPV). Using offense data from the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) paired with economic characteristics from the American Community Survey (ACS), we assess whether changes in economic conditions, including labor market prospects, influenced rates of IPV across US census places. Furthermore, we investigate whether patterns of IPV surrounding the economic downturn were unique, or if they were similar to trends in other types of violence. Our findings potentially inform policy by identifying the types of violence that become exacerbated during economic hardship.

Authors

• Noah Painter-Davis, University of New Mexico

• Aubrey L. Jackson, University of New Mexico

• Christopher J. Lyons, University of New Mexico