Altruistic filicides

[dick sobsey <dick.sobsey@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

We are currently studying homicides of children. I've come across some
information on Resnick's system of classifying filicides (killing of
children by their parents). In particular, I am interested in what Resnick
refers to as "altruistic filicides," homicides in which parents kill their
children believing (or rationalizing) that they are actually doing what is
best for the child. Resnick and some others classify about half of all
filicides in this category.

Much of this work was done in the late 60s and early 70s. We have found
only a few recent articles that address these classifications. If anyone is
aware of a good literature on this topic, I would be grateful to be pointed
in the right direction. I am particularly interested in finding clear
definitions and criteria for the various categories (e.g., altruistic
homicide, extended suicide), studies of fathers and mothers using this
classification system, anything that addresses the validity, reliability,
or functional utility of this system, or anything that compares it with
other classification systems.

If anyone can help, I would appreciate a reply (either directly to me or to
this list). Thanks.

Dick Sobsey



Dick Sobsey, Director
JP Das Developmental Disabilities Centre
University of Alberta
6-123 Education North
Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2G5  Canada
phone: (780) 492-3755
fax: (780) 492-1318
dick.sobsey@ualberta.ca