Homicide and the Family

In an analysis of 6389 homicides occurring in the city of Detroit during 1926-1968, a classification of homicides based on social interaction was proposed. In this paper the data dealing with the largest category of homicides, those involving are summarized. The proportion of all homicides involving family relations, and age-race-sex specific rates for the defendants and victims of these homicides are presented. It is proposed that homicides involving family members represent problems in family interaction and maladjustment, and that the proper training of persons in family counseling and crisis intervention may help reduce the homicide rate. (Abstract Adapted from Source: Journal of Marriage and the Family, 1971.