Interpersonal Homicide and Masculine Homicide

Interpersonal Homicide

  • Definition: Homicide related to interpersonal conflicts, excluding cases of Domestic or Family violence.

  • Source: Brookman, F. (2022). Understanding Homicide. Sage (pp. 105-125).

Themes in Masculine Homicide

  • Focus: Examination of homicide specifically from a masculine perspective, including
      - The concept of femicide.
      - The overarching definitions of homicide.

Types of Masculine Homicide

Confrontational Homicide

  • Characterization:
      - This involves spontaneous honor contests where offenses are committed in reaction to perceived disrespect.
      - The primary motive is often tied to maintaining one's 'face' or 'honor' and, at times, enhancing reputation.
      - Victim Involvement:
        - In certain instances, the victim may engage alongside the offender in a violent confrontation.
        - This leads to a scenario where the death of one party, often the victim, occurs (victim-precipitated).
      - Source: Brookman (2022, p. 108).

Revenge Homicide

  • Characterization:
      - Involves premeditated intentions to kill or seriously harm the victim due to perceived wrongdoings.
      - Weapons are typically taken to the scene, indicating a high degree of planning.
      - Victim Experience:
        - The victim often has little to no opportunity to engage or defend themselves.
      - History of Conflict:
        - A discernible history of conflict between the offender and victim is common.
      - Source: Brookman (2022, p. 108).

Financial Gain Homicide

  • Characterization:
      - Homicides motivated by financial gain, commonly through acts like robbery or burglary.
      - These events can be either spontaneous or methodically orchestrated.
      - Relationship Dynamics:
        - Offenders and victims may often be strangers but not exclusively.
      - Source: Brookman (2022, p. 108).

Theoretical Underpinnings of Masculine Homicide

  • Masculinity and Violence (Feminist Theories of the 1970s):
      - Explore the links between traditional masculinity and violent behaviors.

  • Hegemonic Masculinity:
      - Reference to R.W. Connell’s work from 1987, showcasing dominant forms of masculinity and those that are marginalized.

  • Masculinity in Crisis:
      - Discussion of what is perceived as a crisis in masculinity, potentially leading to aggressive acts.

  • Marginalized Masculinity:
      - Insights from Polk (1994) about men experiencing lower social status and its implications.

  • Impact of Childhood Trauma:
      - Research by Ellis et al. (2017) linking early life trauma with later violent behaviors.

  • Conceptual Models of Masculinity:
      - The societal roles of
        - Man in power,
        - Man with power,
        - Man of power,
      - Additional insights regarding how power dynamics influence masculinity and violent behaviors.