Multivariate Dimensions of Age, Gender, and Weapon Use in Spousal Homicides

Abstract

This paper examines the multivariate dynamics of whether the type of weapon used in spousal homicides varies with the age and gender of the victim. Twenty-seven years of Supplementary Homicide Reports (FBI, 1980–2006) are used to investigate the differences in male versus female perpetrated spousal homicides. The current study is unique in its use of correspondence analysis which is a useful technique for finding relationships in studies that involve large, two-way tables. The results of this study show distinct relationships among weapon type, age group, and gender in spousal homicides.

Keywords:

• spousal homicide
• age
• gender
• weapon use