NCJ Number
138658
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 40 Issue: 8 Dated: (August 1992) Pages: 85-88
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This overview of spousal homicide discusses its incidence, those at risk, perpetrator profiles, offense characteristics, and policy implications.
Abstract
Using data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation's "Supplemental Homicide Reports" for 1976-85, Mercy and Salztman (1985) identified 16,595 partner homicides, which constituted 8.8 percent of all homicides. The adult female is more at risk for being a victim of such a homicide than the male. Partner homicides perpetrated by females are more likely to be linked to domestic stress and are often preceded by a history of physical abuse. Most acts of spousal homicide occur in the home, typically in the living room when done by women and throughout the house when done by men. Males do not show any preference for a particular weapon in partner homicide; women usually use a handgun. Men who perpetrate partner murders are typically quiet, want to be accepted by society, are unable to relate to the world around them, and exhibit a great deal of daily stress in their lives. Women who kill typically have felt trapped in an abusive relationship that has extended over a period of time. Criminal justice professionals associated with law enforcement, the courts, and corrections must be trained in the characteristics and dynamics of partner homicide and partner physical abuse so that the criminal justice attitudes and policies that govern official responses to potential and actual partner homicides are preventive and helpful. 5-item bibliography