Web resource:	http://new.vawnet.org/Assoc_Files_VAWnet/AR_lethality.pdf
Type:	Journal Article
Title:	Lethality assessment tools: a critical analysisApplied Research Paper Series
Authors:	Websdale, Neil
Keywords:	Perpetrators;Homicide
Year:	2000
Publisher:	VAWnet Library
Notes:	Reviews a number of commonly used lethality assessment tools and the research on domestic homicide. Argues that lethality assessment instruments are more useful as a means of identifying future dangerousness than in precisely predicting lethal outcomes of domestic violence. Notes that most assessment tools are designed to ask questions of victims rather than of perpetrators, and identifies common clusters of questions which appear in such tools. Also identifies the antecedents which emerge most prominently in homicide-suicides, familicides and spouse homicides. Points out that research into domestic homicide is limited by the amount of information available and that lethal outcomes may also be related to the timely availability of emergency medical services. Asserts that the major problem is a risk that, because of the aura of “science” around lethality assessment tools, women’s voices and experiences may be disregarded, and the complexity and individuality of their situations not sufficiently attended to. Nevertheless, these instruments are powerful indicators of dangerousness, and can be used, in concert with other information, including the intuition and experience of advocates, to assist women in safety planning.
URI:	https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/15626
Physical description:	7p
Appears in Collections:	Journal Articles

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