LABOR MARKET INSTABILITY AND HOUSEHOLD CONFLICT: A STUDY OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN PERU´S REGIONS (2009-2023)

This study examines the gender-differentiated dynamics of domestic violence across 25 Peruvian regions from 2009-2023, employing a System Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) approach. Our analysis reveals distinct patterns in violence persistence, with higher temporal continuity for men compared to women, suggesting deeply embedded societal norms. The research uncovers contrasting effects of unemployment on gender-based violence. While male unemployment increases violence, female unemployment shows an inverse relationship, supporting bargaining model theories. Notably, informal labor significantly reduces violence against women but shows no significant effect for men, highlighting gender-specific economic dynamics. Our findings demonstrate that women's economic participation has opposing effects: reducing violence against women while increasing violence against men, consistent with male backlash theory. Education emerges as a protective factor for both genders, with slightly stronger effects for men than women. Technological access shows varying protective effects: cellphone ownership significantly reduces violence for both genders, while internet access demonstrates stronger protective effects for women compared to men. Overcrowding and poverty exhibit complex, gender-differentiated impacts, suggesting the need for targeted interventions. These findings contribute to understanding the nuanced interplay between socioeconomic factors and domestic violence, emphasizing the importance of gender-specific approaches in policy development and intervention strategies in Peru.