This examination of all homicide defendants in a large U.S. urban jurisdiction over a 5-year period highlights notable differences from previous work that are likely attributable to sampling.
To our knowledge, this is the first study to provide a view of the relationship between psychiatric disorders and homicide in a comprehensive U.S.-based sample unaffected by referral bias.
While similar studies have been conducted in Europe, social and cultural differences as well as lower per capita homicide rates limit the applicability of those findings to the United States.
A study by Frierson and Finkenbine (17) most closely resembles this study in its aims,
but the defendants in that investigation had been referred for assessment because of concerns regarding competency to stand trial or criminal responsibility.