Citation

Uranaka C, Cusson M. Revue Internationale de Criminologie et de Police Technique et Scientifique 2012; 65(2): 210-225.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In Japan, homicide rates are among the lowest in the world. The article presents the police data on homicide since 2001. The murderers and victims are relatively old and involve family members and acquaintances. The very low frequency of homicides is explained, first, by informal social controls: the internalization of values of respect for others, constant surveillance, and hierarchical relations. Second, one finds formal social controls by an effective police operating in synergy with civil society. The article also discusses the very small number of gang wars between the Yakuza and the relationship between homicide and suicide.

Language: en

Keywords

Police; Surveillance; Homicide; Family; Suicide; Japan; Neighborhood; Formal and informal social controls; Yakuza