NCJ Number
133668
Date Published
1990
Length
13 pages
Annotation
After a review of the pattern and dynamics of homicide among black Americans, this paper identifies obstacles to solving the problem and then suggests ways to prevent it.
Abstract
Homicide is the leading cause of death for black males and females aged 15-34 according to the latest complete data compiled in 1986. Ninety-five percent of black homicide victims are killed by blacks. A review of homicide trends from 1965 to 1981 (Block, 1985) found that blacks, compared to Hispanics and whites, were more likely to be killed in the home with a handgun during a verbal argument. Obstacles to solving the problem are rooted in the failures of both black and white community leaders to acknowledge the seriousness and the nature of the problem. Thus, prior to the implementation of specific strategies for the prevention of black-on-black homicides, education is required to raise the consciousness of various segments of society regarding the problem. Preventive efforts must focus on primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. Primary prevention refers to broad preventive efforts designed to remove the root causes of the problem. Primary prevention efforts should include the development of conflict-resolution skills for young blacks, the development of community-based programs for youth, support for families, handgun control, and the enhancement of racial identity. Secondary prevention involves intervention in nonlethal violence to prevent its escalation to homicide. This includes intervention by police and social services in nonlethal domestic violence to prevent its recurrence. Tertiary prevention involves the provision of appropriate services to the witnesses and family members affected by homicides.