Mass Murder, Suicide, and Moral Development: can we Separate the Adults From the Juveniles?

In an article written before the Columbine incident, the authors explore the relationship between mass murder & suicide, arguing that in cases of mass murder committed by adults, the offender often kills him or herself, whereas in cases of mass murder perpetrated by juveniles, suicide is not a factor. A typology of mass murderers is provided & a dynamic interpretation of the development of the conscience & moral decisional capacity in adult & juvenile offenders is offered. Preventive measures are also explored. (48 refs)