Rural poverty has been linked to increased levels of violence for decades, but what is less well known is how this connection can be made even more dire when it intersects with issues related to gender, age, race, and socioeconomic status. In particular, there is growing evidence that poor people living in rural areas are at greater risk of experiencing both interpersonal violence like domestic abuse and sexual assault, as well as structural violence caused by systemic inequality such as police brutality and discrimination. This essay will explore the specific ways in which intersection with rural poverty worsens risks of violence, including through isolation, access to resources, and cultural norms around masculinity and femininity.
Isolation
One major factor contributing to the link between rural poverty and violence is the lack of social support systems available to those who live in these communities. In many cases, individuals may feel isolated from their neighbors due to physical distances or limited opportunities to interact outside of work or school. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and hopelessness, which can increase vulnerability to trauma and make it difficult to seek help when needed.
Some studies have found that individuals living in rural areas are more likely to experience intimate partner violence due to a lack of public transportation or child care options. Without easy access to services or support networks, victims of abuse may remain trapped in unsafe situations, making them more susceptible to further harm.
Access to Resources
In addition to social isolation, the lack of access to basic needs like healthcare and housing can exacerbate risks of violence for those living in poverty.
Women experiencing domestic violence often struggle to leave an abusive situation without access to safe shelter or financial resources to start over on their own. Similarly, families struggling with food insecurity may be less able to afford protective measures like alarm systems or home security cameras. These factors can create a cycle whereby poverty leads to increased risk of violence, which then perpetuates poverty by limiting access to necessary resources.
Cultural Norms Around Masculinity and Femininity
Another key element in understanding how rural poverty worsens risks of violence is examining cultural norms around gender roles. Many rural communities have long held beliefs about what it means to be a man or woman, which can contribute to both interpersonal and structural forms of violence.
Certain expectations around masculinity may encourage men to use physical force to solve conflicts, while traditional ideas about femininity might discourage women from seeking out help or reporting incidents of violence. This can result in a culture where violence is accepted as normal and even encouraged, leading to higher rates of assault and abuse.
This essay has explored how intersection with rural poverty intensifies the risks of violence across different types of relationships and environments. It has highlighted the importance of addressing systemic issues related to transportation, access to resources, and cultural norms when working to reduce violence in these communities. By acknowledging these complexities, we can begin to build more comprehensive solutions that prioritize safety for all people, regardless of their background or circumstances.
How does intersection with rural poverty worsen risks of violence?
Research shows that people living in rural areas are more likely to experience financial hardship and social isolation, which can increase their vulnerability to various forms of violence such as domestic abuse, assault, robbery, and even homicide. This is because rural communities often have limited access to resources and support systems that could help individuals and families cope with stress and adversity.