What is the classification of Alden's father's crime when he killed the infant?

The classification of Alden's father's crime as infanticide is supported by the legal definition and context of the act. Infanticide specifically refers to the killing of an infant, typically defined as a child under one year of age, by a parent or someone in a similar position. This classification often recognizes the unique circumstances surrounding a parent's mental state or emotional distress, which can differentiate this crime from other forms of homicide.

Infanticide encompasses the notion that the perpetrator may have acted under severe psychological stress, potentially mitigating moral culpability when compared to other homicide classifications. In situations involving the killing of a newborn or young infant by a parent, infanticide acknowledges the complexities of familial relationships and societal pressures, as well as the vulnerabilities of the offender in such tragic circumstances.

In this case, since Alden's father's act involves the killing of an infant, it aligns directly with the legal framework and definitions that categorize this act as infanticide, making this classification the most appropriate. Other options such as justifiable homicide, negligent homicide, and second-degree murder do not accurately convey the specific context or the identity of the perpetrator in relation to the victim, which is a crucial aspect when determining the correct classification of the crime committed.