Homicide followed by suicide is a rare yet serious event of interpersonal violence. While observed globally, extensive research on this topic has primarily focused on large-scale, developed...Show moreHomicide followed by suicide is a rare yet serious event of interpersonal violence. While observed globally, extensive research on this topic has primarily focused on large-scale, developed countries. Little attention has been given to studying homicide-suicide incidents in a diverse array of small-scale subsistence societies and comparing those to homicide-suicides in industrialized countries. Aiming to obtain a deeper understanding of this phenomenon, this study compares the incidences and patterns of homicide-suicides in industrial/post-industrial societies to those in subsistence societies. The findings reveal that homicide-suicides commonly involve intimate partners in both types of societies, with male perpetrators targeting female victims. Regardless, the results also display cross-national differences, particularly regarding age, motives, and the use of firearms in the offense. This paper indicates that both significant similarities and distinctions are present in homicide-suicides across societies worldwide. Cross-cultural differences may explain the observed variations of homicide-suicide patterns and characteristics internationally.Show less
