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Murderous parents
1Center for Forensic Psychiatry and Risk Assessment, 1000 North Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA. palermogb@juno.com
Summary
This study identifies key signs of family violence, including neonaticide, infanticide, and filicide, to help recognize parents at risk. Understanding historical and cultural contexts is crucial for early identification and intervention.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Family violence, encompassing neonaticide, infanticide, and filicide, presents significant challenges.
- Historical and cultural factors influence the manifestations and perceptions of these acts.
- Existing literature provides a foundation for understanding parental risk factors.
Observation:
- The article examines major forms of family violence: neonaticide (infant killing), infanticide (killing of an infant or child), and filicide (killing of one's own child).
- Observations are drawn from historical, cultural, and forensic psychiatric contexts.
- Case studies from clinical practice illustrate psychodynamic aspects.
Findings:
- Early identification of parents at risk for neonaticide, infanticide, and filicide is possible through careful observation.
- Psychodynamic reflections offer insights into the motivations behind these acts.
- Integrating historical and cultural understanding enhances risk assessment.
Implications:
- This work aids in the early identification of parents exhibiting risk factors for severe child maltreatment.
- Findings can inform therapeutic interventions and support systems for at-risk families.
- Understanding the psychodynamics of filicide is essential for forensic evaluations and prevention strategies.