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Amok
1Division of Psychiatry, United Medical School, Guy's Hospital, London.
The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Amok has evolved from an Indian war tactic to a syndrome of sudden, inexplicable violence. Its classification and the reasons for its prevalence in Malaysia remain unclear.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Anthropology
- Criminology
Background:
- Historical review of amok, originating as a war tactic in Hindu India.
- Evolution of amok to modern-day incomprehensible violence and mass murder by individuals.
Observation:
- Description of a typical amok attack and its diagnostic criteria.
- Geographical presentation of amok cases in Malaysia, New Guinea, Laos, and North America.
Findings:
- Discussion of potential motives for amok-related killings.
- Exploration of psychiatric diagnoses for amok within contemporary criteria.
Implications:
- The classification of amok remains an unresolved issue in psychiatric and forensic fields.
- The specific reasons for the high incidence of amok in the Malaysian region are yet to be determined.