When Caregivers Kill: Understanding Child Murder by Parents and Other Guardians

Betty L. Alt · Sandra K. Wells

Apr 2010 · Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

About this ebook

From mothers who kill their children in postpartum fugues, to fathers who murder their kids for revenge against an estranged wife, the stories in this book are chilling yet real, and bring home the message that children are vulnerable to violence even in the care of those who should love and protect them the most. Sadly, child murder by parents and caregivers happens more frequently than one might guess, and while each case is different, there are often warning signs that something might be amiss. Signs of physical abuse may precede the ultimate act of murder. A mother's mental state after the birth of a child may signal true distress and the potential for extreme actions. No one can predict with certainty when a parent or other caregiver may snap, but here Alt and Wells examine many cases of child murder to find out what they have in common, how we might prevent such violence, and what more we can do to protect children in potentially explosive situations.

Ratings and reviews

I would guess if my niece, wouldn't have been in the book. It wouldn't have bothered me so bad u know? To be on the net years later. To find out someone's trying to make money off not just my niece, but others. I think that the writer and editors need there tail kicked. My niece was only six. You guys want to make money off mine and my family's pain. That's not very nice. Be creAtive write a fictional book. ( God bless leahs uncle.!!!!!!!!!!!)

About the author

Betty L. Alt is author or co-author of twelve books including Policewomen: Life with the Badge, Following the Flag: Marriage and the Modern Military, and others. She is a lecturer in sociology and criminology at Colorado State University-Pueblo. Sandra K. Wells is co-author with Betty Alt of Wicked Women, Fleecing Grandma and Grandpa, and other titles. She recently retired after twenty-nine years in law enforcement, fifteen as Chief Investigator with the Pueblo County, Colorado District Attorney's office. She lectures in criminology at Pueblo Community College.