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Explanations of Mixed-Sex Partnered Homicide: A Review of Sociological and Psychological Theory

NCJ Number
246320
Journal
Aggression and Violent Behavior Volume: 18 Issue: 5 Dated: September-October 2013 Pages: 520-526
Author(s)
Elizabeth A. Gurian
Date Published
2013
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Offending by mixed-sex partnered offenders i.e., at least one man and one woman, no less than offending solely by men, requires explanation.
Abstract
Offending by mixed-sex partnered offenders i.e., at least one man and one woman, no less than offending solely by men, requires explanation. This article begins with an overview of homicide committed by mixed-sex partnered offenders, followed by a brief discussion of sociological theories and then focuses primarily on psychological theories including transient criminality and stimulation-seeking behavior, hybristophilia and opponent process, folie a deux, obedience and authority in order to address gaps in our understanding of mixed-sex partnered homicide offending. These theories may help us better comprehend the dynamics between mixed-sex partnered homicide offenders at a sociological and psychological level.