Impact of Violence on Fertility in Mexico

Yanitza Florez, Student

Globally, violence has impacted various demographic aspects. Some research has focused on understanding the effects of violence on factors such as life expectancy and migration. However, there is less understanding of how violence affects fertility. On the one hand, some studies suggest that violence may reduce fertility rates by creating an environment of insecurity, limiting resources, and disrupting family planning. On the other hand, in some contexts, such as conflict zones, violence has been linked to higher birth rates as a form of resistance. In the case of Mexico, there has been a significant increase in homicide rates, primarily related to crime and drug trafficking, which may have contributed to both limiting and altering reproductive behavior. This study aims to analyze the impact of criminal violence on fertility in Mexico in 2000 and 2010 at the municipal level. The findings show a significant association between homicide rates in 2000 and physical violence with the TFR in 2010. This suggests a continued decline in fertility as violence increases. Thus, in a context where fertility is already in decline due to various factors outlined in Mexico's fertility transition, violence emerges as a key factor influencing women's reproductive decisions in contemporary Mexico.

Keywords: Fertility, Small area estimation, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Family Planning and Contraception

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