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Amok

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2018

Yan Kon
Yan Kon*
Affiliation:
Division of Psychiatry, United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's Hospital, London SE1 9RT
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Abstract

Background

Amok is reviewed from a historical standpoint, tracing how it has changed from the Hindu states of India where it was a war tactic to the sudden incomprehensible violence and mass murder by a single individual associated with the syndrome today.

Method

A typical amok attack is described and the criteria for amok discussed. Amok in Malaysia, New Guinea, Laos, North America and other countries are presented. The possible motives for such violent killings and a possible psychiatric diagnosis in relation to contemporary diagnostic criteria is discussed.

Conclusion

Classification of amok remains unresolved. The reason for its frequency in and around Malaysia remains unknown.

British Journal of Psychiatry (1994), 165, 685–689

Type
Short papers
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 165 , Issue 5 , November 1994 , pp. 685 - 689
Copyright
Copyright © Royal College of Psychiatrists, 1994 

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