NCJ Number
160331
Date Published
1987
Length
40 pages
Annotation
This report is based on a study of 1,492 victims of homicide and manslaughter reported by Massachusetts police over a 7-year period (1977-83).
Abstract
Findings show that homicide is among the top five causes of death for teens and young adults in Massachusetts. It is the leading cause of death for 15- to 24-year-olds in Boston. Young adult males in poor urban areas are at highest risk both as victims and as perpetrators of homicide. Friends, family, and acquaintances, rather than strangers, are the most frequent attackers. The study concludes that violence is endemic to life in Massachusetts as well as throughout the Nation. Massachusetts police report over 30,000 violent crimes every year. In 1986 over 21,000 Abuse Prevention Act petitions were filed in Massachusetts courts, with the majority filed by women seeking protection from violent partners. In addition, the Department of Social Services confirmed 9,985 cases of child abuse or child sexual abuse in 1986. Three themes emerged from the conference for which this report was prepared: male socialization encourages violence against male peers and against women; urban poverty correlates with high homicide rates and disproportionately affects blacks and Hispanics; and local culture teaches attitudes toward violence and power through the media, schools, families, health professionals, and government. Appended data and 12 references