NCJ Number
87667
Date Published
1981
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This chapter provides a literature review and preliminary research findings concerning adolescent murderers.
Abstract
Little scientific research has been done on its prediction and control. Among about 45 studies of young murderers reviewed, fewer than 5 even alluded to a previous body of literature, let alone empirically based research, to guide this investigation. Only one literature review on child murderers was found, and that review was less than complete. Only four studies provided information on the ethnicity of the murderer. All studies in this area were retrospective and none were predictive except in the most general way. Only two empirical studies that attempted to differentiate among murderers, or between murderers and other youths, on broad or inferred psychological dimensions were found. Both involved extremely small samples, rendering the conclusions highly speculative. Clinical and theoretical treatises were similarly based on samples of fewer than 10. These works seem to provide a consensus on the family variables and personality characteristics of the young murderers who were considered emotionally and psychiatrically disturbed. The most frequently mentioned characteristic was an unusual relationship between the offender and his or her seductive, overprotective, or dominant mother. This maternal relationship often seemed to be associated with a father figure who was absent, distant, or passive. Also examined are literature describing the family backgrounds and psychological characteristics of adolescent murderers seen as delinquent, criminal, or psychopathic; literature on accidental murderers; and a research project which assessed 18 youths charged with murder. A total of 51 references are listed.