Which of the following is an indicator of lethal violence?

• A. Obsession with partner
• B. Access to weapons
• C. Killing pets
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Lethal violence tends to be signaled by patterns of escalating aggression and coercive behavior. An obsession with a partner indicates a fixation and a desire to control the other person, which is a red flag for intimate partner violence. Having access to weapons increases the potential for harm because a means to inflict lethal violence is readily available. Killing pets signals a disturbing cruelty toward animals and a lack of empathy, which often accompanies more serious harm toward people. When these risk indicators appear together, they paint a stronger picture of imminent danger than any single sign alone. That is why the option that includes all of the above is the best choice.