NCJ Number
151841
Date Published
1992
Length
448 pages
Annotation
This volume presents epidemiologic studies, clinical research, government reports, case descriptions, and commentaries on a wide range of violence, from firearm homicide to child abuse and spouse abuse.
Abstract
The documents were originally published in journals or other publications of the American Medical Association between January and June 1992. The materials note that more than 1.5 million individuals are assault victims each year, and more than 650,000 women are rape victims. In addition, 1.8 million women are beaten by their male partners each year, and 8-11 percent of pregnant women report being physically assaulted during pregnancy. Moreover, 2-4 million children were abused or neglected in 1991, and more than 1 million elderly persons were mistreated during the same year. Furthermore, homicide is the third leading cause of death among 15- to 24-year-olds and the leading cause of death among black males in that age group. The homicide rates for children and adolescents have more than doubled in the last 30 years. The preface concludes that unprecedented support is needed for additional research into violence causes, prevention, and treatments for both victims and perpetrators. Violence must also be considered a social disease; and health care providers, elected officials, and the public must all become educated about what can be done now to address this emergency. Figures, tables, photographs, and chapter reference lists