NCJ Number
102798
Journal
Bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine Volume: 62 Issue: 5 Dated: (June 1986) Pages: 376-399
Date Published
1986
Length
24 pages
Annotation
Homicide ranks 11th among leading causes of death in the United States, but it is the 4th leading cause of death for black men aged 15-34.
Abstract
More than 100 reported assaults may occur for each homicide. Most homicides occur among persons already acquainted or related and as an outgrowth of an argument rather than as part of another crime. Both police and health statistics provide national data on homicides. They provide less complete data on nonfatal assaults. Approximately 23,000 homicides take place in the United States each year, with the greatest impacts on minorities, males, and the young. Homicide rates are highest in a southern band of States from California to the Carolinas. Rates are also higher in urban than in rural areas. Firearms are used in about three-fifths of all homicides. Nonfatal assaultive violence imposes major costs in terms of physical injuries, disabilities, health care costs, and loss of quality of life. 33 references and questions and answers focusing on the role in violence of physical punishment of children, sexual identity, and poverty.