Characteristics and violence risk factors of criminal offenses committed by patients with depression: An eight -year retrospective study in China

Abstract

Background

Accumulating evidence indicates a relationship between depression and violence; however, little is known about the characteristics of criminal offenses and the risk factors of violent offenses for patients with depression. This article analyzed the sociodemographic, criminological, and clinical characteristics of criminal offenses committed by patients with depression and the risk factors for violent offenses.

Methods

Criminal cases committed by patients with depression between January 2016 and December 2023 were collected in a national database named China Judgements Online and a forensic center. The sociodemographic, criminological and clinical characteristics of the cases and offenders were analyzed. Chi-squared test and independent sample t-test were used to compare the differences between violent and non-violent subgroups. A binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine the risk factors of violent offenses.

Results

A total of 1781 criminal cases were enrolled, among which 1086 (61.0%) cases were violent offenses, and 695 (39.0%) cases were non-violent offenses. Significant differences were found between the violent group and the non-violent group in education level (p < 0.001), employment status (p < 0.001), disease stage (p < 0.001), and treatment history (p < 0.001). Male (OR = 2.336, 95% CI = 1.134–4.484), irritability (OR = 1.861, 95% CI = 1.063–3.596), and diagnosis of bipolar disorder (OR = 3.146, 95% CI = 1.053–9.399) were risk factors for violent offenses, while treatment and medication were protective factors.

Conclusion

Early identification, regular treatment, and dynamic risk management were critical for violence prevention in patients with depression, particularly in those exhibiting irritable symptoms. It is essential to educate many people, including family members, about the signs and symptoms of depression and effective communication strategies with patients.