TITLE:
Factors Associated with Homicides in Psychiatric Expertise in Togo
AUTHORS:
Saliou Salifou, Yawo Apélété Agbobli, Daméga Wenkourama, Sonia Kanekatoua, Gnargonna Bawi, Charfoundine Affo, Kolou Simliwa Dassa
KEYWORDS:
Homicide, Associated Factors, Forensic Psychiatry, Togo
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Psychiatry,
Vol.13 No.4,
September
20,
2023
ABSTRACT: Background: In most societies, homicide or murder is a crime that often leads to
imprisonment. Studies around the world have sometimes found cases of mental
illness (schizophrenia spectrum disorders) as an explanation for some
homicides. The aim of this study was to determine the factors associated with
homicide in the Togolese context. Methods: This was a descriptive and
analytical cross-sectional study of pre-trial psychiatric expertise reports
from January 31st, 2019 to January 30th, 2022. Results: Out of 704 defendants appraised, 206 (29.3%) had committed homicide. Males
accounted for 91.7% of Homicide defendants (HD). Their average age was 31.6 ±
12.2 years, with extremes of 16 and 74 years. Factors associated with homicide
were female gender, age between 30 and 45 years, married or cohabiting status
and occupation as a farmer/fisherman/breeder. Psychoactive substance use (PAS),
mental illness and psychiatric history were not associated with homicide. Conclusion: Preventing delinquency and interpersonal conflict, and promoting social
cohesion, could significantly reduce homicides in Togo.