Homicide in childhood. The Metro-Dade County experience from 1956 to 1982.

This study is concerned with all homicides in Metro-Dade County in victims 12 years of age or less during the 27-year period from 1956 to 1982. Cases were readily subdivided into two groups--those exhibiting child abuse and those that did not. These two groups were further categorized by age, race, sex, cause of death of victim, and perpetrator of fatal act. Distinct differences were apparent such that one could conclude that not all homicides in childhood involve child abuse.