When children kill

by Katherine D. Kelly

"This qualitative study of young offenders convicted of murder and manslaughter takes on the challenge of examining the social psychological developments of young people convicted of homicide. In-depth interviews explore offenders' experiences in early childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood; their accounts of the homicides; and their life in custody. This research shows that the pathways leading young people to homicide are as varied as the types of killings perpetrated. Some were raised in social environments conducive to extreme violence where they witnessed, experienced, and were trained in the use of violence. Others found themselves frustrated and angry by their life circumstances. These experiences contributed to a lack of empathy for their victims and limited their insights into the enormity of their actions.". "This book addresses a critical gap in the literature, highlighting the importance of community-based early intervention, prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation.