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Homicide and major mental disorders: a 25-year study.

H Schanda¹, G Knecht, D Schreinzer

¹Justizanstalt Göllersdorf, Schlossgasse 17, Vienna, Austria. hans.schanda@univie.ac.at

Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica

|July 6, 2004

Summary

Major mental disorders (MMDs) significantly increase homicide risk, particularly schizophrenia and delusional disorder. This association persists even when accounting for alcohol abuse, highlighting the need for targeted mental health treatment.

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Area of Science:

Forensic Psychiatry
Psychopathology
Criminology

Background:

Major mental disorders (MMDs) are a public health concern with complex associations to societal issues.
Understanding the specific risks posed by MMDs is crucial for public safety and targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the association between major mental disorders and homicide.
To compare the prevalence of MMDs in homicide offenders with the general population.

Main Methods:

Retrospective analysis of 1087 Austrian homicide offenders from 1975-1999.
Comparison of MMD rates in offenders versus the general population.
Statistical analysis including odds ratios (ORs) and confidence intervals (CIs).

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Main Results:

MMDs were linked to a two-fold increased homicide risk in men and six-fold in women.
Schizophrenia showed significant associations (ORs: men 5.85, women 18.38).
Delusional disorder in men (OR 5.98) and comorbid alcohol abuse also elevated homicide risk.

Conclusions:

The elevated homicide risk in individuals with MMDs is not solely due to alcohol abuse.
Specific disorders like schizophrenia and delusional disorder are key drivers of this association.
Effective treatment for at-risk individuals with MMDs is essential for violence prevention.