Serial Crime Psychology 1

Serial Crime Many definitionsMany definitions Different from “multiple crimes”Different from “multiple crimes” Almost always shows distinct pattern (M.O.)Almost always shows distinct pattern (M.O.) Almost always associated with some type of psychiatric problem(s)Almost always associated with some type of psychiatric problem(s) Usually a “cooling off” period between crimesUsually a “cooling off” period between crimes Significant research has revealed fascinating similaritiesSignificant research has revealed fascinating similarities

General Patterns Minimum of 3-4 victims (if homicide) with “cooling off” period in betweenMinimum of 3-4 victims (if homicide) with “cooling off” period in between Victims usually strangers to killerVictims usually strangers to killer Some type of sadistic need to dominate victimSome type of sadistic need to dominate victim Rarely for material profit, almost always psychologicalRarely for material profit, almost always psychological Victim may have symbolic relationship to killerVictim may have symbolic relationship to killer Victims usually vulnerable populationsVictims usually vulnerable populations These general patterns usually appear in both homicide and material crimes (Example: serial arson)

Motives ManipulationManipulation DominationDomination ControlControl Sexual lust (most common)Sexual lust (most common)

Criminal History and Behavior Almost always establish a certain M.O.Almost always establish a certain M.O. In homicide, most serial killers exhibited three distinct behaviors as childrenIn homicide, most serial killers exhibited three distinct behaviors as children –Arson –Cruelty to animals –Bedwetting at later ages Known as the “Triad”Known as the “Triad”

Robert Resller (FBI) Study Studied 36 jailed serial killers looking for patternsStudied 36 jailed serial killers looking for patterns Now famous resultsNow famous results Current Studies are now focusing on possible genetic linksCurrent Studies are now focusing on possible genetic links

Robert Resller (FBI) Study EthnicityEthnicity –>90% white SexSex –Mostly male AgeAge –25-35 IntelligenceIntelligence –High IQ GradesGrades –Low grades in school EmploymentEmployment –Difficulty holding jobs Family history –Usually included psychiatric problems, alcoholism, crime Relationship with parents –Usually hated one or both parents Abuse –Usually suffered from child abuse Suicide –Almost always attempted multiple times Other crimes –Almost always, especially “Cruelty” crimes

Holmes Typology of Serial Homicide Based on obsessive-compulsive behavioral patternsBased on obsessive-compulsive behavioral patterns Also focuses on two main aspects of the assailantAlso focuses on two main aspects of the assailant –General behavioral patterns Two main categoriesTwo main categories –Patterns in the act itself Six categoriesSix categories

Holmes Typology of Serial Homicide: Behavioral Disorganized/AsocialDisorganized/Asocial –Asocial - Does not fit in with society Organized/NonsocialOrganized/Nonsocial –Does not want to fit in with society

Holmes Typology of Serial Homicide: Nature Visionary – –“Voices in head” - often God or Satan telling person to kill Missionary – –Goes on hunting missions to kill certain people Comfort Oriented – –Pleasure from killing but gets some profit – –Usually female - “black widow”

Holmes Typology of Serial Homicide: Nature Lust Oriented – –Sexual pleasure from murder Thrill Oriented – –Gets a rush or high from killing Power/Control Oriented – –Takes pleasure from manipulation/domination over others