An introduction to domestic homicide: understanding the diverse nature of the problem

Abstract Domestic homicide is identified as an issue of worldwide public concern. Women and girls are overwhelmingly the victims of domestic homicide This chapter provides an introduction and definition for domestic homicides, progress made on identifying risk factors for domestic homicide, and tools for risk assessment. The development and significant contributions of domestic violence-related fatality review teams or committees are discussed. Domestic homicide victims represent diverse identities including Indigenous, immigrants, and refugees; lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans; ages across the life span including children killed in the context of domestic violence, young and older women; and homicides of women in rural locations and workplaces. The chapter provides an introduction to subsequent chapters in the book.