Domestic Violence, Couple Interaction and Children’s Health in Latin America

Keywords

Couple interaction, Domestic violence, Female autonomy, Child health

Abstract

This paper examines the relationships between several measures of couple interaction and children’s health. We hypothesize that more maternal input in decision-making, joint discussion of health issues, and the absence of violence and male control are conducive to better child health. Mortality and nutritional status are used as measures of child health. Analyses are based on Demographic and Health Surveys in five Latin American countries (Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Haiti and Nicaragua). Violence is the best interaction predictor of poor nutrition and lack of female autonomy is the best predictor of higher mortality. Joint discussion of family planning and joint decision-making about household issues are also predictive of child health. Male controlling behavior did not have a strong relationship with health outcomes in most countries. Overall, findings indicate that positive couple interaction is associated with improved health outcomes for children.

Original Publication Citation

Heaton, Tim and Renata Forste. 2008. “Domestic Violence, Couple Interaction and Children’s Health in Latin America.” Journal of Family Violence,23(3):183-193

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2008-4

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5612

Publisher

Journal of Family Violence

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Sociology

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS