Parricide and homicide NGRI offenders: How do they differ?

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to provide a forensic psychiatric characterization of perpetrators of parricide who were found not guilty by reason of insanity (NGRI). We conducted a study involving 52 NGRI patients who had committed homicide or attempted homicide within the Department of Forensic Psychiatry in Thessaloniki, Greece, between January 2015 and 2020. Subjects were categorized into two groups: parricide (n = 21) and a control group (n = 31). Our findings revealed that in the parricide group, the majority of patients were unmarried males in their thirties, with a history of prior contact with mental health services and nonadherence to treatment. Additionally, they had a background of substance abuse and exhibited violent behavior before the index crime. A notable trend observed among parricide offenders was the tendency to seek hospitalization, possibly as a means of distancing themselves from stressful family environments, based on information obtained in the interviews conducted as a part of this research. All instances of parricide involved the use of sharp weapons, and the crimes were consistently committed in private settings. Symptomatology among parricide patients was assessed as moderate to severe, with a significant long-term risk observed following the crime. The primary differences identified between the two groups were the higher pre-crime voluntary admissions and the elevated estimated postcrime risk observed in the parricide group. Early intervention, comprehensive assessment of risk factors, family support, and assistance in resolving conflicts and reintegrating patients into society are emphasized as critical interventions that can potentially prevent future tragedies.

Keywords: Parricide; homicide; matricide; mentally ill offenders; postcrime risk.