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Homicide, Sex Role Differences and Role Relationships

NCJ Number
88078
Journal
Omega Volume: 10 Issue: 4 Dated: (1979-1980) Pages: 379-387
Author(s)
L G Ketner; J A Humphrey
Date Published
1980
Length
9 pages
Annotation
High degrees of role reciprocity are positively associated with female homicide in the childhood, marital, and parental roles, while similarly high degrees of unreciprocity are positively associated with male homicide in roles of student and employee.
Abstract
This study, based upon Palmer's theory of role unreciprocity and other directed violence, investigates similarities and differences between male and female homicide offenders, as well as between murderers and nonaggressive property offenders. Role unreciprocity refers to blockage an individual experiences in the performance of social roles. Two hypotheses are tested. The first states that as individuals' lives tend to be characterized by situations of high reciprocity, the likelihood of homicide increases, while the second states that both male and female homicide offenders tend to experience similar degrees of unreciprocity. The findings support the first hypothesis and provide qualified support for the second hypothesis. Palmer's theoretical formulation is given empirical support and specification. Study data and 19 references are provided. (Author abstract modified)

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