This book explores the phenomenon of children being suddenly and often brutally killed by parents who have invariably professed their love for them. It reviews 128 cases of filicide in the UK between 1994 and 2012. The cases are presented in a way in which the magnitude of each tragedy is acknowledged.
Very often in these cases, relationships between the parents are disintegrating, or, parents have already separated in an atmosphere of bitterness and hostility. Professionals may be involved trying to ensure that the children are not being used and exploited by either parent. Custody and access is usually a major source of tension. The book identifies relationship and family patterns in which the situation may rapidly deteriorate, and a parent may begin to perceive the child's life as the ultimate weapon in the dispute with their partner. O'Hagan explores the legal contexts which provide guidance for the key agencies involved. He provides frameworks for assessment derived from actual cases, and considers the implications for frontline workers.
This book will be a valuable resource for criminology and social work scholars as well as practitioners, trainers and managers working in the fields of social work, child protection and law.