Navajo Criminal Homicide

This paper examines several common notions concerning homicide among the Navajo and its relationship with alcohol and acculturation. Earlier references to the act are reviewed, and all reported homicides occurring between 1956 and 1965 are analyzed in a manner comparable to an extensive study done in Philadelphia between 1948 and 1952. It was found that homicide rates among the Navajo at the present time are stable and comparable with those of the nation. There are indications that they have been so for some time. Greatly increased use of alcohol was not found to increase homicide rates or to be significantly associated with violence in the homicide situation. Navajo patterns which differed from those found in Philadelphia are discussed. The Navajo offender is typically a married male between 35 and 39 years of age who kills his wife as a result of sexual jealousy or domestic quarrels. A high proportion of homicides are followed by suicide.