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Neonaticides in the United States-2008-2017
Academic Forensic Pathology
|June 13, 2022
Summary
Neonaticide, or infant homicide within 24 hours of birth, is linked to young, unmarried mothers who conceal pregnancies. Prevention programs supporting pregnant women can help reduce these tragic infant deaths.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Forensic Science
- Sociology
Background:
- Neonaticide, the homicide of an infant within the first 24 hours of life, presents a critical public health and forensic challenge.
- Understanding the demographic and situational factors associated with neonaticide is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the maternal and infant characteristics associated with neonaticide in the United States.
- To investigate the circumstances surrounding neonaticide events.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) linked birth-infant death data (2008-2017).
- Examination of National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) data for neonaticide circumstances (14 states).
- Calculation of rates per 100,000 person-years for maternal and infant characteristics.
Main Results:
- Neonaticide victims were more likely to have mothers who were young, unmarried, non-Hispanic, Black, and had lower education levels.
- A significant proportion of neonaticides involved home births without medical assistance (66.7%).
- Pregnancy concealment (73.8%) and infant disposal in trash receptacles (35.7%) were common circumstances.
Conclusions:
- Identifying at-risk mothers and neonates is vital for preventing neonaticide.
- Programs addressing teen pregnancy, reducing stigma for young mothers, and offering support resources may help prevent neonaticide.
- Interventions should focus on supporting young, unmarried mothers and addressing pregnancy concealment.
