Evidence-Based Policy Approaches for Preventing Intrafamily Violence and Reducing Criminal Behavior in Latin America

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VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN is one of the world’s greatest public health problems and one of Latin America’s major development challenges. Intrafamily violence is widespread in the region, affecting between 14 and 38 percent of all women throughout their lifetime. A series of studies commissioned by the Wilson Center and supported by the Inter-American Development Bank have begun to shed new light on the complex nature of this violence. Together, they contribute to evidence-based policy recommendations that could prevent the incidence of intrafamily violence and reduce the risks of future criminal behavior by affected children as they grow up.

The first of these studies analyzes partner violence experienced by different ethnic groups of women in Peru and recommends ways to direct violence prevention resources more effectively. A second examines the characteristics and risk factors common among currently incarcerated women and suggests ways to address these factors preemptively in children to reduce future criminal behavior. Finally, a third study examines the spread of violence from one generation to the next through household violence and reveals differences in how men and women respond to domestic violence.

To learn more, read the policy brief, report summaries, or infographics below. The full studies will be published in mid-2018.

Evidence-Based Policy Approaches for Preventing Intrafamily Violence and Reducing Criminal Behavior in Latin America

 Policy Brief 

Prevalence of Violence against Women among Peruvian Ethnic Groups

 Summary

 Infographic

Incarcerated Women in Latin America: Characteristics and Risk Factors Associated with Criminal Behavior

  Summary
 Infographic 

The Intergenerational Transmission of Violence: Testimonials from Prison

 Summary  Infographic