Examining anxiety as a predictor of homicidality: a pilot study.
Homicidality rates have been shown to be more prominent among persons diagnosed with mental disorders as compared to the general population. However, the role that anxiety plays in homicidal ideation and intent is poorly understood. This study investigated predictors of homicidal intent, thought, or plan in an adult population of psychiatric inpatients diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Results suggest that the factors most strongly associated with homicidality include male gender, substance abuse, mania, and current legal problems. Multiple regression analyses showed that only male gender predicted homicidality when other variables were taken into account.
Schwartz
Robert C
RC
Department of Counseling, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325-5007, USA. rcs@uakron.edu
Wendling
Heather M
HM
Guthrie
Heather K
HK
D000328:Adult; D001007:Anxiety / Q000523:psychology; D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D003617:Dangerous Behavior; D005431:Florida; D006708:Homicide / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010554:Personality Disorders / Q000523:psychology; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012737:Sex Factors