Work

Case Report: Neonaticide, infanticide, and filicide — psychopathological aspects and forensic implications

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This article offers an in-depth analysis of child homicide committed by parents, using two clinical cases to illustrate the complexity of the issue. A variety of social, psychological, and educational factors contribute to this serious fatality. Mental disorders such as mood disorders and psychotic conditions often play a significant role. The article highlights the critical need for mental health services to address issues such as treatment disengagement and non-adherence, which are frequently precursors to violent behavior in individuals with severe mental illnesses. Additionally, providing support to socially vulnerable pregnant women, even those without mental disorders, is critically important. To help mitigate risks and prevent family tragedies the assessment of the presence of psychiatric symptoms during the postpartum period by psychiatrists, obstetricians, and pediatricians is essential.

Source: Frontiers in Psychiatry

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2026.1824900

Authors: Renata de Souza Rosa Lima, Julia de Bulhões Carvalho Schechtman, Antonio Egidio Nardi, Alexandre Martins Valença

Institutions: Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Universidade Federal Fluminense

Language: English

Topic: Homicide, Infanticide, and Child Abuse

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801