Filicide: Historical review and prevention of child death by parent.

Filicide has occurred throughout the world since before recorded history. Although rates have declined in developed nations, it remains a leading cause of child death with approximately equal numbers of children killed by fathers and mothers. A large percentage of filicides is associated with mental illness, particularly postpartum depression and psychosis. The remainder results from child abuse and neglect. Men convicted of filicide are usually incarcerated whereas female perpetrators are more likely to receive treatment-oriented sentences. Individuals working with families and children should be trained to recognize risk factors and intervene to protect endangered children.