Published
Oct 17, 2023Page count
162 pagesISBN
978-1529230697Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Oct 17, 2023Page count
162 pagesISBN
978-1529230680Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Oct 17, 2023Page count
162 pagesISBN
978-1529230703Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Oct 17, 2023Page count
162 pagesISBN
978-1529230703Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University Press
Covert Violence
On the blog:
Overlooked homicides: How covert violence eludes official US crime reports
In the media:
Covert Violence: The Secret Weapon of the Powerless in New Books Network
Covert violence occurs in all social institutions—including families and close relationships, education, workplaces, politics, mass media, and healthcare—each with its own unique power dynamics that shape the incidence and patterns of these vicious acts. This book focuses on the types of surreptitious murder and mayhem that perpetrators intend to go unnoticed by would-be victims—until it’s too late. When such attacks are carried out with efficiency and competence, they may be disguised in official records as the result of illness, accident, or intentional self-harm, only on occasion to be later reclassified as the brutal crimes they are.
This compelling and much-needed book is for all those who seek to understand—and strive to prevent—violence in society.
"Covert Violence reminds us that science is never settled. Just when we think we know something pretty well, in this case about violence, we are reminded we do not." Social Forces
“In looking at the covert nature of underdog violence, this important text is reminiscent of Seductions of Crime and the best form of provocative and engaging criminology. It is quite simply a must-read.” James Treadwell, Staffordshire University
“Covert Violence fills an important gap in the literature by providing a detailed exploration of forms of violence that are often overlooked by scholars, the public, and even the targets of such acts. Levin and Wiest's examination of the topic is truly captivating.” Wendy Regoeczi, University of South Carolina
“The usually buried phenomenon of covert violence is unearthed and framed in this groundbreaking book. Artfully written, it will appeal to any reader interested in true crime. Academically grounded, it provides a key text for scholars and students.” Paul Iganski, Lancaster University Law School
Jack Levin is Professor Emeritus and co-director of the Brudnick Center on Violence and Conflict at Northeastern University.
Julie B. Wiest is Professor of Sociology at West Chester University of Pennsylvania.
1. An Introduction to Covert Violence, Power, and Social Institutions
2. Family and Close Relationships
3. Formal Education
4. The Workplace
5. Politics and Government
6. Healthcare
7. Mass Media
8. Shining Light on the Shadows
Appendix: Case Summaries
