Case report: Traumatic responses to child murder

Abstract

This case highlights the relationship between normal and abnormal grief, normal and abnormal bereavement reactions and post traumatic stress disorder following trauma. Issues pertaining to the definition of a victim are also raised. The concept of victimization is broadened to include intrapsychic experiences of trauma and the act of homicide is discussed in terms of an abnormal stressor. The reactions of those who have killed are discussed.