What crime was Alden charged with when he killed his illegitimate infant?

Study for the Criminologist Licensure Board Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to excel on your exam!

Infanticide is specifically defined as the act of a mother killing her own child, typically within a certain timeframe after birth, often influenced by the psychological and emotional impacts of childbirth. This crime recognizes the unique circumstances surrounding the maternal relationship and potential mental health issues following delivery. In many jurisdictions, infanticide is treated differently from murder, reflecting the complex motivations that may drive a mother to commit such an act.

In the case of Alden, if he killed his illegitimate infant shortly after birth, the specific charge of infanticide would fit the legal definitions and criteria typically established in criminal law, which focuses on the circumstances surrounding the act and the relationship between the perpetrator and the victim.

Murder generally involves a more premeditated and intentional act, while infanticide takes into account the unique and often tragic context of the act, as well as mitigating factors related to the mother's mental state. Thus, infanticide is the most fitting charge for this scenario.

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