Objective:To study the family environment associated with violent behavior in schzophrenic patients and violent criminals.Methods:A contrastive study was conducted between 49 violent criminals and 35 schizophrenic patients with violent behavior.They were assessed with past history questionnaire

early deviant family environment questionnaire(before 18 years old) and Family Environment Scale-Chinese version(FES-CV).Results:①There were more histories of aggressive behavior and parental psychotic histories in schizophrenic patients than in violent criminals.There were more histories of alcohol abuse

parental unsound rearing styles

suffering parental abuse and family defect in early years in violent criminals than in schizophrenic patients.②Significant differences between two groups were found in cohension achievement

entertainment

organization subscales of the Family Environment Scale.Conclusion:There are significant differences between two groups in family environment.Progressing improvement in family environment will help to improve psychological health level of violent people.