Seasonal Variation in the Occurrence of Homicide in Finland

• DOI: 10.1176/ajp.154.12.1711
• Publication Date: 2014-12-17T19:52:55Z
• Authors: Jari Tiihonen; Pirkko Räsänen; Helinä Hakko
• Keywords: Homicide; Seasonality

Although seasonal variation in impulsive aggression related to circannual rhythms of central serotonin neurotransmission is a topic current interest, there little firm knowledge on seasonality the occurrence homicide. Longitudinal studies platelet imipramine binding and L-tryptophan levels have placed peaks around January February nadirs May August. The aim this study was test hypothesis that number homicides lowest during winter highest spring summer. A secondary variations violent suicides are correlated.The largest database monthly homicide thus far (N = 4,553) used study, which all murders manslaughters Finland years 1957-1995 analyzed.During rate 6% below expected rate. Correspondingly, summer elevation above rate, but no significant peak observed spring. There association between not nonviolent suicides.The results suggest exists. On basis literature, it could be hypothesized correlation associated with transmission.