Immigrant Perpetrators of Domestic Homicide: Unique Risks and Service Needs
Abstract
This integrated dissertation comprises of three studies exploring severe and/or lethal domestic violence among male immigrant perpetrators. The first study analyzed the differences between immigrant and Canadian-born perpetrators of domestic homicide using a sample of 186 cases of domestic homicide that occurred from 2002-2016 in Ontario; 93 perpetrators that were Canadian-born and 93 immigrant perpetrators. Results revealed sociodemographic differences between groups, such as immigrant perpetrators’ increased likelihood to reside in large urban areas, have children, and have a higher level of education.
Criminogenic differences were also identified between groups, with immigrant perpetrators less likely to have probation, parole, and bail violations, and significantly fewer non-domestic violence arrests. Risk factors also differed between groups, with immigrant perpetrators less likely to be in a common-law relationship and have access or possession of firearms and significantly more likely to have sexual jealousy, misogynistic attitudes, and other mental health/psychiatric problems as identified risk factors.
Expanding on the first study, the second study exclusively explored the profiles of immigrant perpetrators of domestic homicide through the context of immigration and other related factors. Results revealed different profiles for immigrant newcomers and immigrant perpetrators who have experienced pre-migration trauma. The third study examined the perspectives of service providers who work with immigrant perpetrators. The sample included 10 key informants who primarily work with immigrant perpetrators in corrections. Using qualitative analysis, challenges and barriers for service providers, unique risk factors for domestic homicide, and promising practices when working with immigrant perpetrators were examined. Service providers identified many individual and systemic barriers and challenges such as language, perpetrators’ reticence to engage with service providers, and government/immigration policies, unique risk factors such as acculturation difficulties and immigrant status, and promising practices such as workplace diversity and cross-sector collaboration.
Overall, these findings highlight the differences between Canadian and immigrant perpetrators of domestic homicide, the heterogeneity and distinct differences among immigrant perpetrators, and the continued challenges and barriers service providers encounter when working with immigrant perpetrators. Further research examining the role of immigration is needed to aid in the development of specialized screening and risk assessment tools. Examining the importance of utilizing different approaches towards mainstream risk assessment and risk management strategies is also needed. Finally, ongoing awareness and training for service providers who regularly work with immigrants and the importance of diverse workplace environments is a critical component in supporting immigrant families experiencing domestic violence.