Year: 1994 Source: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, v.38, no.3, (1994), p.205-216 SIEC No: 20070922

The author reviews the syndrome of murder-suicide, focusing on the jealous-paranoia type. After touching upon statistical data & psychoanalytical, sociological, & psychiatric theories, it is proposed that a better name for this syndrome would be extended suicide. It is contended the murderer acts primarily out of a realistic sense of loss, which might be, at times, compounded by psychological & sociological factors. The aggressor/killer is unable to accept the failure of what was thought to be a good & satisfactory relationship. The killer is viewed as a fragile, dependent, ambivalent, aggressive individual who hides behind a facade of self-assertion, & is unable to withstand the reality of an unexpected rejection &, possibly, a drastic life change. Suicide occurs after the killing of the extended Self. (29 refs.)