Infanticide refers to the intentional act of killing an infant, typically defined as a child less than one year old. This act can occur for various reasons, including social, economic, or psychological factors. Infanticide has been documented in different cultures and historical periods, often linked to issues such as poverty, stigma, or lack of support for mothers. Laws regarding infanticide vary significantly across countries. In some places, it is treated as a form of homicide, while others may have specific legal provisions that consider the circumstances surrounding the act, such as the mental state of the mother. Understanding infanticide requires examining the broader context of mental health, socioeconomic conditions, and cultural beliefs.