Interpersonal Youth Violence in Latin America and the English-Speaking Caribbean

Abstract

Interpersonal violence is a significant health problem and the leading cause of death among youth and young adults in Latin America and the Caribbean (World Health Organization, 2014). This fact sheet provides estimates of violent behaviors, among youth aged 13-15, in Latin American and the English-speaking Caribbean countries, using data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS). These estimates are divided here into four sub-regions: the Andean countries, Central America, the English-speaking Caribbean, and the Southern Cone. The estimates were drawn from the most recent GSHS survey data for each country, with survey years ranging between 2007 and 2013. The analysis shows that males are usually more likely than females to be associated with violent behaviors, specifically being physically attacked and being in a physical fight. Bullying, on the other hand, is not sexspecific. These behaviors are significantly influenced by alcohol use, parental relationship, and peer social support. This knowledge is important for devising comprehensive, context-specific prevention strategies that have been shown to be effective.