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Updated: Jul 31, 2026
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A Swine Model of Neonatal Asphyxia
Published on: October 11, 2011
[Five cases of neonaticide in Quebec].
Myriam Dubé1, Suzanne Léveillée, Jacques D Marleau
1Centre de Recherche Interdisciplinaire sur la Violence Familiale et la Violence faite aux Femmes (CRI-VIFF), Ecole de service social, Université Laval.
Sante Mentale Au Quebec
|October 8, 2004
Summary
Neonaticide, the killing of newborns within 24 hours of birth, is primarily committed by mothers who concealed their pregnancies. This study identifies two distinct maternal subgroups: immature teenage mothers denying pregnancy and older mothers experiencing separation anxiety.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychology
- Neonatal Homicide Studies
Context:
- Neonaticide, the homicide of an infant within 24 hours of birth, is predominantly committed by the mother.
- Previous research suggests perpetrators often conceal pregnancies, deliver secretly, and panic.
- This study examines case files from the Quebec Coroner to analyze maternal motivations and characteristics.
Purpose:
- To investigate whether mothers committing neonaticide form a homogeneous group.
- To identify distinct subgroups within mothers who commit neonaticide.
- To explore the clinical and theoretical implications of these subgroups.
Summary:
- Analysis of five Quebec Coroner case files (1986-1994) revealed two distinct subgroups of mothers committing neonaticide.
- Teenage mothers exhibited immaturity and temporary pregnancy denial, often not desiring the pregnancy.
- Older mothers experienced separation anxiety during the neonaticide event.
Impact:
- Highlights the heterogeneity of mothers committing neonaticide, challenging previous assumptions of a single profile.
- Provides insights into the psychological states of mothers during neonaticide, aiding in forensic assessments.
- Informs clinical and theoretical approaches to understanding and addressing neonatal homicide.
