Date of Graduation
Spring 5-18-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Applied Economics (MSAE)
College/School
College of Arts and Sciences
Department/Program
Economics
First Advisor
Bruce Wydick
Abstract
This study explores the impact of Catholic presence on homicide rates in El Salvador, specifically focusing on the role of Catholic schools in reducing violence in gang-afflicted municipalities. Analyzing municipality-level data from various years, I used Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Instrumental Variable (IV) regressions to study the association between school enrollment and homicide rates. Results show that higher enrollment in Catholic schools is linked to a reduction in homicide rates in gang-affected areas, contrasting with an increase in homicides for non-religious schools. This research sheds light on the importance of investing in Catholic education as a strategy for violence prevention and community development in El Salvador.
Recommended Citation
Adona, Ann Jillian Villanueva, "Taking the Bang Out of the Gang: The Impact of Catholic Schools on Gang Homicides in El Salvador" (2024). Master's Theses. 1570.
https://repository.usfca.edu/thes/1570
Included in
Christian Denominations and Sects Commons, Latin American Studies Commons, Other Economics Commons, Social Control, Law, Crime, and Deviance Commons
