NCJ Number
86719
Journal
Omega Volume: 12 Issue: 3 Dated: (1981-1982) Pages: 281-288
Date Published
1981
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This study analyzes all female homicide victims (912) in North Carolina during the 5-year period from 1972 through 1976.
Abstract
Verkko's static and dynamic laws of the relationship between sex and homicide victimization are investigated. The static law states that in places where homicide rates are high, female victimization tends to be low. The dynamic law holds that increases or decreases in the frequency of homicide primarily affects the male population. The findings do not support either of Verkko's laws. The sex ratio of homicide victims in North Carolina, a State with an above average homicide rate, is lower than that for the country in general. The rate of victimization for both females and males has declined about the same percentage over the 5 years studied. Further analysis of individual victim characteristics and circumstances which surrounded the death scene itself are provided. Comparisons are made between female homicide victims and their male counterparts. Profiles of typical and atypical female homicides are drawn. The trends in homicide victimization over the 5 years under analysis are discussed. Tabular data and 12 references are given. (Author abstract modified)