The contribution of intimate partner violence to socioeconomic inequality among Black, Latina, and White women

Abstract

Women on average make less money than men, and this is particularly acute for Black and Latina women. While there are several contributors to socioeconomic inequality, violent victimization coming at critical times (adolescence, early adulthood) is one such contributor. Intimate partner violence (IPV) particularly impacts women, with Black and Latina women facing higher levels. Thus, it is important to consider for understanding inequality. This research examined the long‐term impact of IPV in adolescence and early adulthood on educational attainment and income among Black, Latina, and White women using the Add Health data. I found strong evidence for the impact of early adult IPV on reducing educational attainment among all women 15 years later and evidence for related reductions in income for Latina and White women. In addition, I found evidence that mental and physical health along with school attendance mediated the impact of IPV on later socioeconomic outcomes for Latina and White women. However, there was no evidence for the mediating mechanisms for Black women. Overall, this research provides evidence for the long‐term effects of IPV on socioeconomic inequality among women and highlights how the effects may differ by race and ethnicity.