Which of the following is a lethality indicator signaling the victim is at greatest risk as they attempt to leave the batterer?

• A. Threats of homicide or suicide
• B. Having a stable job
• C. Attending school regularly
• D. Owning a car

Answer: (A)

Threats of homicide or suicide signal the most immediate danger when a victim attempts to leave a batterer. During the act of leaving, the abuser often reacts with heightened intent to control or harm, and explicit threats of killing the victim or themselves are the strongest warning that lethal violence could occur very soon. This indicator directly points to the batterer’s willingness to inflict fatal harm, making it the single most critical risk signal in safety planning and emergency response. The other options don’t convey imminent danger: having a stable job, attending school regularly, or owning a car are factors that can help someone leave or maintain independence, but they do not reflect a threat of lethal violence. In practice, hearing threats of homicide or suicide should trigger urgent safety measures and professional support.