NCJ Number
100951
Date Published
1986
Length
29 pages
Annotation
After presenting data on the extent and dimensions of homicide and spouse abuse, this paper discusses their causes and prevention, with particular attention to preventing firearms deaths and injuries.
Abstract
Definitions of 'violence,' 'homicide,' 'aggravated assault,' 'family homicides,' and 'stranger homicides' are offered. 1980 data from the Uniform Crime Reports and the National Crime Survey are used to portray the extent and dimensions (offender and victim characteristics, victim-offender relationships, and offense circumstances) of homicide. The discussion of homicide causes encompasses causal theories and empirical factors associated with homicide. Similar information is provided for spouse abuse. The proposed prevention approach for homicide and spouse abuse involves complex social prevention (broad changes in an overall approach to interpersonal violence), primary prevention (intervention in cases of potential violence), and secondary prevention (minimization of the consequences of spouse abuse). Specific steps are presented for each type of prevention. A strategy for complex social prevention is illustrated in proposals for a broad range of interventions to reduce firearms deaths and injuries. A public health research agenda for addressing violence is presented. 73 references.