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A GROWING number of murder cases involving family members in recent months may be rooted in complex psychological and environmental factors, according to a counselling expert who warns that failures in emotional regulation and untreated mental health conditions are among the principal triggers.
Associate Professor Dr Airil Haimi Mohd Adnan, a UK Registered Professional Counsellor and Senior Lecturer at Universiti Teknologi MARA, said that from a human development perspective, the inability to control one’s impulses is a key contributing factor in such tragedies.
He explained that when the rational part of the brain is overwhelmed by extreme emotions such as anger, jealousy, or feelings of betrayal, individuals may act beyond moral and social boundaries.
“Such situations are more risky among individuals with antisocial or narcissistic personality disorders because they tend to act violently without considering the consequences.
“In addition, psychosis and certain mental disorders can cause a person to experience hallucinations or delusions to the extent that they lose rational judgment,” he said.
Dr Airil noted that some individuals may behave uncontrollably under the influence of internal voices or beliefs detached from reality.
He further highlighted the role of toxic family environments, including prolonged conflict, chronic abuse, and excessive control, which can leave deep emotional scars and trigger emotional outbursts.
“Substance abuse such as drugs and alcohol can weaken moral restraints and self-control, thereby increasing the risk of violence.
“The courage to commit crimes against one’s own family is not true courage, but rather reflects a collapse of empathy and self-control that separates a human being from the most cruel acts,” he said.
Dr Airil’s remarks come amid heightened public concern over a spate of domestic homicide cases, underscoring the need for greater awareness of mental health issues, early intervention, and stronger family support systems to prevent further tragedies. - February 18, 2026