Psychopathology and weapon choice: a study of 103 perpetrators of homicide or attempted homicide.

Authors :: Catanesi R
Carabellese F
Troccoli G
Candelli C
Grattagliano I
Solarino B
Fortunato F
Source :: Forensic science international [Forensic Sci Int] 2011 Jun 15; Vol. 209 (1-3), pp. 149-53. Date of Electronic Publication: 2011 Feb 12.
Publication Year :: 2011
Abstract: The aim of this study was to ascertain if a relationship between weapon choice and psychopathology existed. The perpetrators (103) were evaluated at the Department of Criminology and Forensic Psychiatry of the University of Bari in southern Italy. Psychiatric examination and psycho-diagnostic tests were administered for each of the perpetrators and a database was subsequently formulated. The results showed a significant correlation between some types of mental disorder and weapon choice. A strong correlation was found between delusional disorders and the use of sharp weapons, whereas depressive disorders were more strongly associated with asphyxia. Organic disorders were found to be highly correlated with the use of blunt instruments. In cases where the homicide was the result of an impulsive reaction, the use of sharp weapons was most often observed.<br /> (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Full Text Access

Tools