Risk factors for violent crime in patients with schizophrenia: a retrospective study

Introduction. The relationship between schizophrenia and violence is heterogeneous and complex. The aim of this study was to explore the characteristics and the potential risk factors for violence crime in patients with schizophrenia. Methodology. We conducted a retrospective case-control study at the Judicial Psychiatric Identification Unit of Xiangya Second Hospital of Central South University from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2016. The case group included violent offenders diagnosed with schizophrenia, while the control group comprised non-violent individuals with the same diagnosis. Results. There were 308 individuals in the violent group [subdivided into the homicide group (n = 155) and the intentional injury group (n = 153)] and 139 individuals in the non-violent group. A risk model showed that a history of violence (odds ratio (OR) = 2.88, 95% CI [1.79-4.64]), persecutory delusions (OR = 2.57, 95% CI [1.63-4.06]), regular treatment in the previous four weeks (OR = 0.29, 95% CI [0.16-0.51]) and insight (OR = 0.30, 95% CI [0.14-0.62]) were independently associated with violence. Conclusion. This study provided useful clinical information to identify risk factors for violence and develop better strategic programs to manage violence in patients with schizophrenia.