#670 - Inequality & Partner Violence
Can gender unequal societies make relationships more dangerous? Yale researchers explored this question by comparing each US state’s Gender Inequality Index with rates of intimate partner violence among women and men in their state. The study analyzed data from more than 50,000 adults across all 50 states using the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey. Researchers combined these findings with each state’s Gender Inequality Index, which measures inequalities in reproductive health, education, pay, leadership positions, economic opportunities, empowerment, and labor participation.
Results? States with higher gender inequality showed higher intimate partner violence rates, especially psychological partner violence of women, such as emotional abuse, threats, and coercive control. Statistical models revealed that when inequality rises, so does the likelihood of women receiving psychological harm from a partner. This pattern does not appear for men, suggesting that unequal power between genders fuels emotional and physical violence toward women.
The takeaway? Reducing gender inequality may do more than promote fairness—it may also protect emotional safety and improve well-being. Equality isn’t just fair—it’s protective! Advocate for gender equality laws. Couples! Share home care and chores equally. Listen. treat each other equally. Speak kindly, respectfully, and challenge bias when you see it
Written by Kristin M. Harris, Ph.D.