NCJ Number
191559
Journal
Clinical Child and Family Psychiatry Review Volume: 3 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2000 Pages: 97-115
Date Published
June 2000
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews the research literature on murderers under age 13, as well as some of the research on adolescent homicide.
Abstract
Considerable research exists on juvenile homicide, but pre-adolescent murderers have received less attention. This analysis considered the historical context, methodological issues, previous attempts to classify youthful homicide offenders, and predictors of preteen homicidal behavior. Results revealed that the incidence of homicide by preteens in comparison to homicide by adolescents has remained low and does not appear to be increasing, at least as indicated by homicide arrest rates. Although this population was heterogeneous, several developmental similarities emerged across cases that were associated with the perpetration of homicide by preteens. A high percentage of preteen homicide offenders came from homes characterized by physical abuse, domestic assault, poor or absent parenting, and overall instability. Gun availability may also have been a facilitating factor. In addition, research support for differing causes for preteen homicide and adolescent homicide was weak. Findings suggested the need for research regarding differences between male and female preteen murderers, the use of psychological evaluation measures to predict vulnerability to extreme aggression in preteens, preteens who attempt homicide, and the role of ethnic and cultural variables. Figures, table, and 124 references (Author abstract modified)