1. People & Relationships

Discuss in our forum

Honour Killing

By , About.com Guides

Definition:

The so-called "honour killings" are murders by families on family members who are believed to have brought "shame" on the family name.

The apparent "shame" could be caused by a victim refusing to enter into an arranged marriage or for having a relationship that the family considers to be inappropriate.

Some victims are driven to suicide from the pressure of their families.

Alternate Spellings: Honor killing

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.