Quantitative Methods in Contexts of Everyday Violence
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Date
2009-05Author
Justino, Patricia
Leavy, Jennifer
Valli, Elsa
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Abstract
The analysis of violence from an individual or household perspective is arguably one of the most
challenging research areas in social science. Outbreaks of violence affect the core of human relations and
social norms. They occur in non-linear cycles, and co-exist at different levels of social interaction within the
family, the community or the state. Analysis of this complexity cannot be restricted to one social science
discipline or method of analysis. This article reflects on an innovative methodology adopted to capture the
experience of living with violence in communities in Brazil, Jamaica, Mexico and Nigeria. The methodology
confronted disciplinary boundaries by encouraging close dialogue between quantitative and qualitative
researchers in violent settings, and creating processes for learning and sharing. This article describes the
methodology, presents the main results of the quantitative analysis and reflects on the challenges and lessons.