Iranian Honor Killings and Neutralization Theory: Justifying Lethal Violence

This study applies neutralization theory to honor killings in Iran. Few studies have applied criminological theories to honor killings, and no prior study has specifically examined neutralization theory in Iranian honor-killing cases. Using open-source data, this study identified 71 cases that satisfied the inclusion criteria and included direct offender statements. These statements referenced 90 distinct neutralization techniques. The most frequently identified technique was denial of the victim, while denial of injury was rarely used. The findings show how honor-based narratives are used by offenders to justify lethal violence.