NCJ Number
140102
Journal
Bull American Academy Psychiatry Law Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Dated: (1992) Pages: 47- 58
Date Published
1992
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article presents a review of the available literature on the treatment of homicidal children and adolescents.
Abstract
Possible treatment strategies for homicidal children and adolescents include psychotherapy, psychiatric hospitalization, institutional placement, or the use of psychopharmacologic agents. Psychodynamic explanations proposed as either contributory to or causative of homicide by children and adolescents include the expression of the death wish secondary to the intensification of the oedipal conflict or sibling rivalry, aggressive behavior as a defense against feelings of passivity and femininity, severe lapses of ego control, and early experiences of ego deprivation. Sociocultural factors regarded as possibly contributory to the occurrence of juvenile homicide are severe physical and sexual abuse; exposure to repetitive or extreme violence; and disturbed, conflictual, enmeshed parent-child relationships as well as the availability of guns and media violence. Treatment planning for homicidal children and adolescents should consider all possible contributors to the murder. Particular attention should be directed to the diagnostic evaluation of the offender and his/her family. 55 references