NCJ Number
185189
Date Published
2000
Length
44 pages
Annotation
Although violence occurs throughout the world, the United States is an extremely violent society and among the various explanations for violent crime are the availability of firearms, human traits, a subculture of violence that stresses violent solutions to interpersonal problems, and family conflict.
Abstract
There are many types of interpersonal violent crimes. Rape, defined as the carnal knowledge of a female forcibly and against her will, has been known throughout history, but the view of rape has evolved. At present, close to 100,000 rapes are reported to police in the United States each year, and the actual number of rapes is probably much higher. Rape is an extremely difficult charge to prove in court because the victim's lack of consent must be proven. Murder is defined as killing a human being with malice aforethought. There are various degrees of murder, and punishments vary accordingly. One important characteristic of murder is that the victim and the criminal often know each other. This has led some criminologists to believe that murder is partly victim-precipitated. Assault--another serious, interpersonal violent crime--often occurs in the home and includes child abuse and spouse abuse. It has been estimated that almost 1 million children are abused by their parents each year and that 16 percent of families report husband-wife violence. There also appears to be a trend toward violence between dating couples. Robbery involves theft by force, usually in a public place. Types of offenders include professional, opportunist, addict, and alcoholic robbers. Robbery is considered a violent crime because it can and often does involve violence. Political violence is another serious problem throughout the world. Many terrorist groups exist at both national and international levels. Terrorists may be motivated by criminal gain, psychosis, grievance against the state, or ideology. 273 notes, 3 tables, 5 figures, and 8 photographs