Exploring spousal homicide in forensic psychiatry: A case series

Introduction: Spousal homicide (SH) in the forensic psychiatry setting can be the result of multiple aetiologies working together within the dynamic nature of intimate relationships. Defences attainable in SH include insanity, automatism, battered woman syndrome, and diminished responsibility. This case series illustrates the diversity of psychosocial, criminological, and psychiatric pathways leading to SH and highlights the role of forensic psychiatric assessment in determining criminal responsibility within the Sri Lankan legal context.
Case Histories: A 48-year-old male with a history of alcohol dependence was charged with the murder of his wife. He had controlling and possessive behaviours towards his wife and inflicted repeated physical and psychological trauma. At the time of the offense, he was in a state of intoxication. A 32-year-old female was referred following the murder of her husband. She endured recurring physical and psychological trauma from her unemployed, psychoactive drug-dependent husband. She was diagnosed with a depressive illness earlier. A 28-year-old male from a dysfunctional family, who exhibited impulsive behaviours, was charged with the murder of his wife. He reported persistent physical and emotional abuse from his wife and discovered her extramarital affair a week before the incident. A 45-year-old male was referred for the murder of his wife. He suffered from a delusional disorder and harboured delusions of infidelity towards his wife. His wife had sought help from legal authorities multiple times due to physical and emotional violence.
Conclusion: Determining criminal responsibility in SH requires a comprehensive forensic psychiatric assessment, including retrospective reconstruction of the offender’s mental state at the time of the offence. The psychiatrist must understand the relevant legal defences so that an assessment in accordance with legal criteria can be done. Early contact with mental health services and understanding their criminological characteristics may help in identifying high-risk individuals and establishing opportunities for possible interventions.