Child homicide is a horrific crime and it is even more devastating when it occurs at the hands of a parent. According to empirical studies, most children are killed as a result of neglect or abuse. Data also indicate that parents are the most likely perpetrators of this crime..In attempt to present the most comprehensive understanding of lethal child maltreatment, this review discusesthe prevalence and risk factors of child maltreatment in all of its forms, including lethal acts of neglect and

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... buse. The most common victim offender relationship for crimes of child maltreatment and the high-risk situations for lethal child maltreatment are also discussed. The dynamics associated with maternal and paternal filicide are reviewed in detail, as are the costs and consequences for child maltreatment. Finally, policy responses and recommendations are offered.