[Homicide and mental disease].

The number of homicides committed by insane persons has increased from 1980 to 1989. Among those charged with homicide and attempted homicide who have been subjected to judicial psychiatric observation, 60% are schizophrenic and 17% have paranoid psychoses. Other psychotic conditions are relatively rare. The homicides took place most frequently within the household and in most cases were psychotically motivated. The cause of the increased frequency of homicides is discussed. The liberal treatment strategy employed at psychiatric institutions, and the short duration of the treatment, are thought to be important in this connection.