The psychology behind serial killers and mass murderers is a complex and
intriguing subject that has garnered significant attention from researchers, law
enforcement agencies, and the public alike. This abstract explores the
psychological factors that drive individuals to commit these horrific acts,
examining common traits, motives, and behavioural patterns observed in both
serial killers and mass murderers.
Drawing upon psychological theories and
empirical research, the abstract delves into the role of childhood experiences,
personality disorders, and societal influences in shaping the minds of these
violent offenders. Furthermore, it discusses the differences between serial
killers, who typically target multiple victims over an extended period, and mass
murderers, who inflict mass casualties in a single incident.
By gaining insight
into the psychological makeup of serial killers and mass murderers, this
abstract aims to contribute to a better understanding of these disturbing
phenomena and inform efforts aimed at prevention and intervention. Serial
killers and mass murderers have long intrigued and horrified society, prompting
extensive research into the psychological factors that drive their behaviour.
This paper provides an overview of the psychological underpinnings of both
serial killers and mass murderers, exploring common traits, motives, and behavioural patterns observed in these individuals. Drawing on a wide range of
scholarly sources and case studies, the paper examines factors such as childhood
experiences, personality traits, and psychological disorders that may contribute
to the development of homicidal tendencies.
Furthermore, it delves into the role
of societal influences, media portrayals, and cultural factors in shaping the
mindset of individuals prone to committing such heinous acts. By shedding light
on the intricate interplay between psychological, social, and environmental
factors, this paper aims to deepen our understanding of the complex phenomenon
of serial murder and mass violence, ultimately informing efforts for prevention,
intervention, and criminal justice.
Introduction
In our country, there have been many cases of serial killers spanning several
decades. People often try to delve deep into the lives of these killers to
understand what leads them to commit such heinous crimes. It's important to know
who these serial killers are and what factors contribute to their transformation
into monsters.
Serial killers are individuals who may seem normal to society,
often having relationships and friendships, but harbour a hidden killer instinct
that remains unknown until their crimes are exposed. These killers are
horrifying, yet they hold a morbid fascination for many. They share the same
spaces as everyone else, making them hard to identify until it's too late.
Serial murder is defined by three main factors: the number of victims, the time
between killings, and the killer's motivation. Unlike mass murderers or spree
killers, serial killers have a cooling-off period between their crimes. It's
this pattern that sets them apart and makes them particularly difficult to
detect. It's also important to note that serial killers are different from those
who kill for financial, political, or military reasons.
Serial killers' demographics
According to the statistics male serial killers are more in number when compared
to females. Men are responsible for the vast majority of crimes committed
worldwide. An even greater percentage of men engage in serial murder. The ratio
of male to female criminals, including those who commit single-incident
homicides, is 9:1; the ratio of males to females who commit serial murder is
somewhere in the neighbourhood of 19:1.
Although rare, female serial killers do
exist. Single-incident murders are normally committed by individuals in their
early to mid-20s, while the initial murder in a series is normally committed by
an individual in his or her late 20s to early 30s.victims of serial murder are
just as likely to differ from the victims of single-incident homicide as the
perpetrators of serial murder differ from the perpetrators of single-incident
homicide. Young adults are the most common targets of serial murder, but victims
could be anywhere from their early childhood to late adulthood. Some serial
killers prefer male victims, others prefer female victims, and still others have
no gender preference.
According to recent estimates, females are more likely to
be victimized by a serial killer than males, a pattern that runs counter to what
has traditionally been observed in single-incident homicide, where male victims
predominate. There are also single-serial differences in the victim-perpetrator
relationship. Whereas the victims of single-incident murder are often family
members, friends, and acquaintances, the victims of serial murder are nearly
always strangers.
Often times these serial killers are young, who are quite
smart and usually come from broken families. These people are either physically
or mentally or sexually abused in their childhood and have consequential
personality issues like loneliness, and very low self-esteem. In the state of
loneliness these people tend to over think and transform into monsters. No
serial killer is similar to others but they all are alike in the set of serial
killers.
These killers' childhood is marked with the lack of nurturing
relationships. Serial killers don't just "go crazy" or just snap, years of
victimization of loneliness, unhealthy childhood, child abuse, make them into
these horrific creatures.
Typologies of Serial Killers
Various typologies have been developed to categorize serial killers into
distinct groups. One popular typology, known as the organized/disorganized
typology, was created by the FBI's Behavioural Science Unit. Organized serial
killers are often of average to above-average intelligence, possess good social
skills, and have a stable employment history. Their murders are typically
well-planned and involve the use of a weapon, resulting in organized crime
scenes.
In contrast, disorganized serial killers have below-average
intelligence, weak impulse control, and poor social skills, leading to unplanned
attacks and disorganized crime scenes. Another typology proposed by Holmes and DeBurger outlines four categories as visionary, mission-oriented, hedonistic
(including lust, thrill, and creature-comfort killers), and power/control types.
Visionary killers are motivated by delusions, while hedonistic killers seek
personal pleasure or gain.
Mission-oriented killers aim to change the world
according to their own standards, targeting specific groups. Power/control
killers derive enjoyment from controlling and dominating their victims. However,
this typology has limitations due to poorly defined categories.
Background of Serial Killers
Serial killers frequently have troubled backgrounds, as noted by researcher Jack
Levin, who specializes in murder, prejudice, and hate. Many of these individuals
experienced abuse, incest, or neglect during childhood, which can contribute to
the development of poor self-image and psychological issues. Their upbringing
often lacks nurturing relationships, with absent or ineffective parents and
undefined authority figures.
This environment may allow them to engage in
destructive behaviours without consequences. Childhood patterns of violent play,
cruelty to animals, and even arson have been observed among many serial killers.
These early experiences and lack of guidance can play a significant role in
shaping their later tendencies towards violence and murder.
Literature Review
The literature on serial killers provides valuable insights into their
psychology, behaviour, and societal impact. Traditional definitions characterize
serial killers as individuals with specific psychological motivations for their
killings, often with unique methods and signatures. They are distinguished from
mass murderers by the breaks between their murders. Modern research delves into
various aspects of serial murder, including psychological, psychiatric, and
criminological perspectives, aided by advanced technology such as crime-fighting
computer systems and databases.
Challenges to stereotypical views of serial
killers as white males with dysfunctional relationships and histories of abuse
are raised, advocating for open-minded approaches to understanding this
phenomenon. Serial killers are categorized based on their patterns of killing,
with attention paid to psychological factors underlying their actions. Criminal
profiling, conducted by agencies like the FBI's Behavioural Unit, plays a
crucial role in investigating serial killings, though its limitations are
acknowledged. Works of fiction and non-fiction further explore the history,
motives, and methods of serial killers, offering readers a glimpse into the dark
recesses of human nature.
Overall, this literature contributes to a deeper
understanding of serial killers and their impact on society. Furthermore, these
works often analyse the broader societal implications of serial killings,
examining how they affect communities, law enforcement, and the collective
psyche of society. By confronting readers with the unsettling realities of
serial murder, literature prompts reflection and dialogue on issues such as
mental illness, trauma, and the nature of evil, ultimately contributing to a
more comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon and its impact on society as
a whole.
Aim & Objective
The aim of this project is to gain insight into the psychology behind the
behaviour of serial killers. The objectives of the project are multi-faceted.
Firstly, it aims to investigate the background of serial killers, including
their childhood, family history, and any criminal background, in order to
understand the factors that contribute to their transformation into serial
killers. Additionally, the project seeks to comprehend the motives driving
serial killers and analyze their actions leading up to their crimes. By
examining case studies of famous serial killers, the project aims to gain a
deeper understanding of their lives and behaviours.
Furthermore, it aims to
explore the role of forensic science in serial killer cases and understand why
these individuals commit multiple or repeated crimes. Overall, the project aims
to shed light on the complex psychological and sociological factors underlying
serial killer behaviour, with the hope of contributing to a better understanding
of this phenomenon.
Methodology
The methodology employed for this project involved conducting research at the
District Crime Records Bureau (DCRB) in Kottayam, Kerala. Here, I analysed two
cases registered under serial killers from Kerala, aiming to gain a deeper
understanding of the factors contributing to the transformation of individuals
into serial killers.
Through this research, I sought to identify common patterns
and themes in the backgrounds of these individuals, such as their childhood
experiences, family dynamics, and any criminal history. Additionally, I included
profiles of serial killers from around the world, as well as from India, to draw
connections and insights from my findings.
By examining these cases and
profiles, I aimed to enrich my understanding of the psychological and
sociological factors that drive serial killer behaviour, ultimately contributing
to a comprehensive analysis of this complex phenomenon.
Research on Serial Murder
Research on serial murder has shown that it is a relatively rare occurrence,
accounting for less than one percent of all murders annually. Most serial
killers operate alone, although a significant minority work in pairs, with one
assuming a dominant role. Serial killers often choose victims who appear
preoccupied, distracted, or vulnerable, such as single women, transients,
runaway teenagers, and prostitutes, as they are less likely to be noticed if
they disappear.
Preferred methods of murder among serial killers include
strangulation, stabbing, and beating, which offer them greater personal control
over their victims. After committing the crime, serial killers are more likely
than single-incident killers to attempt to deceive law enforcement by altering
the crime scene or moving the body. While there is no single psychological
profile that fits all serial killers, common characteristics include a history
of criminal involvement, signs of psychopathic personality, and a rich fantasy
life capable of fueling their murderous desires.
Many serial killers collect
trophies from their victims, which serve to relive the murder and may trigger
future killings. Additionally, research has shown that some individuals
entertain murder fantasies for years before acting on them. Despite popular
stereotypes, gender plays a significant role in serial murder, with female
victims outnumbering male victims in many cases, challenging traditional notions
of victimization in patriarchal societies.
Psychology of Serial Killers to Determine Whether They are Born of Made
The psychology of serial killers raises a fundamental question: are they born
with a predisposition to commit these heinous acts, or are they made through
environmental factors and experiences? Many theories suggest that a combination
of both factors contributes to the development of serial killers. Research
indicates that serial killers often exhibit emotional development issues and
above-average intelligence, and for some, the act of killing becomes akin to a
drug.
Childhood experiences, particularly relationships with mothers and
instances of trauma, have been linked to the development of serial killers.
Studies have shown that a significant percentage of convicted serial killers
suffered from physical, psychological, and sexual abuse during childhood, as
well as head trauma. Socialization difficulties and a lack of self-control are
common traits among serial killers, suggesting that societal factors also play a
role in their development.
Various psychological theories, such as Biological
Trait Theories and Psychodynamic theory, attempt to explain the behaviour of
serial killers, but no single theory fully accounts for their actions. Further
research in criminology and sociology may provide a better understanding of
serial killers and potentially lead to interventions aimed at preventing such
crimes.
Why do Serial Killers commit Repeated Crimes?
Serial killers often commit repeated crimes because they derive immense
satisfaction from the act of killing. Unlike one-time murderers who may kill
incidentally to commit or conceal another crime, serial killers have a chronic
and overwhelming need to murder. The gratification they experience from these
acts of violence sets them apart. This satisfaction serves as a driving force
for their continued actions, leading them to seek out and target new victims.
This need to kill is often deeply ingrained in their psychological makeup,
motivating them to repeat their crimes over time. This fundamental desire to
take lives distinguishes serial killers from other criminals and is a key factor
in their repeated criminal behaviour.
Case Studies of Famous Serial Killers
Serial killers are horribly gruesome and horrific creatures. We all watch CID,
CIA, and other crime related shows but many people don't know the serial killers
that started the whole hoopla.
Most Infamous Serial Killers History
-
Ted Bundy:: Ted Bundy, most of us know his name, but few of us know what he actually did to his victims. He brutally strangled, stabbed, beat, and raped his victims. He almost went to his death never admitting to a single murder. Shortly before his execution, he admitted to 36 murders. Many believe that his true body count is much higher. Bundy was known for being an extremely good-looking man, that's how he got away with most everything he did.
- No of crimes committed: 30 confessed; total unconfirmed.
- Cause of death: Execution by electrocution
- Convictions: Aggravated kidnapping, Attempted murder, Burglary, Murder
- Span of Crimes: February 1, 1974 – February 9, 1978.
-
Jack The Ripper: The Ripper is one of the most infamous serial killers in history. He's also completely unknown. There have been suspects of who the killer is, but nobody was ever confirmed. Over 100 years later, we were no closer to solving the murders than we were in the 1800's. Jack was known to be extremely heinous In his killings. Not only did he butcher the bodies tremendously, but he also was known to remove organs from the bodies of his victims. One victim was found, slaughtered, missing her heart. The number of his victims is unknown to anyone other than the killer himself. There are five canonical victims that are confirmed but who knows how many others are out there. There is now a whole study devoted to looking at this case, it's been dubbed "Ripperology".
- Victims: Unknown (5 canonical)
- Cause of Death: Suicide
- Convictions: Murder, Ripping internal organs
- Span of crimes: 1888 - 1891
Indian Serial Killers:
- Gowri Shankar A.K.A. Auto Shankar:
Auto Shankar is the known name of Indian serial killer named Gowri Shankar. During the period of 1987–1990. Among the many brutal and gruesome murder cases that have sensational in Chennai, none comes close to the multiple murder cases by 'Auto' Shankar and his group between 1987 and 1990. Starting out as a painter, Shankar later started driving autorickshaws, transporting illicit arrack from coastal hamlets areas between Thiruvanmiyur and Mamallapuram to the city. His autos were also used for 'savaaris' of young women exploited in the burgeoning flesh trade then. He ran prostitution dens from a line of huts in Periyar Nagar as well as from a lodge on L.B. Road with the connivance of the police. He was subsequently tracked down at Rourkela Steel City, Odisha, and brought back and subsequently hanged at Salem prison.
Victims: 6
Cause of Death: Hanging – Death penalty
Convictions: Murder, Kidnapping
Span of crimes: 1975-1989
- Cyanide Mallika KD:
Kempamma (Cyanide Mallika) is the first Indian female convicted serial killer. Currently serving a life sentence after being convicted of 6 counts of murders, Mallika is considered to be the first female serial killer. She would pretend to be someone wellversed in rituals and befriend women in temples, and later call them to another temple far away in a secluded location. The victims would be requested to show up in their fineries. Mallika would then ask them to consume cyanide-laced holy water or prasad. She would then take off with their valuables.
Victims: 6 confessed (yet there are more)
Punishment: Death penalty (commuted to life imprisonment)
Convictions: Theft, cyanide poisoning, murder of female
Span of crimes: 1999 – 2007
- Thug Behram - Ruthless Serial Killer:
When you say the word "serial killer", the first person that pops in your head might probably be someone like Jack the Ripper or Ted Bundy. But in reality, India was home to one of the world's most ruthless serial killers. During 1790-1841, which was the period of the East India Company, Thug Behram managed to kill over 900 people. His weapon of choice was a yellow piece of cloth. "Behram became an expert at 'casting' the rumaal quickly and accurately so it landed on Adam's apple and in a swift move, extinguished people's lives. Today, the infamous rumaal can be seen online, preserved in the private museum of an unknown collector." Behram and his gang's main aim was to loot traders. A popular label with what he was called was the 'King of Thugs'. He was the leader of the Thuggee cult active in Oudh in northern central India during the late 18th and early 19th century.
- Raman Raghav A.K.A.:
India's Jack the Ripper: Raman Raghav, also known as Sindhi Talwai, Anna, Thambi, and Veluswami, was a serial killer from Khstra (then Patra) active during the mid-1960s. Raghav went on a killing spree for over three years in the 1960s, casting a spell of fear over the entire city. Parks and streets emptied out at dusk and in many areas, nervous residents armed themselves with sticks and patrolled the streets. There were several incidents in which beggars and homeless men were badly assaulted by panicky crowds. "Raghav was a hunter and a scavenger. He killed because he had to. He was always short of money. In such a circumstance, any other person would have resorted to petty theft or burglary. But Raghav had an abundance of sinister urges. As Shakespeare wrote in King Lear, 'As flies to wanton boys are we to the gods. They kill us for their sport'
Victims : 41
Cause of Death : Kidney Failure
Convictions: Murder
Span of crimes: 1965 – 1968
Marri Srinivasa Reddy
The accused, 28 year old, Srinivasa Reddy, a bachelor, worked as a lift mechanic
in the nearby towns. An alcoholic, he also got into drug abuse. The villagers
recall him as of having quiet demeanour and never mingled with anyone. During
interrogation, he revealed that he had also become addicted to child pornography
and had two mobiles with him, which the police recovered.
He allegedly raped and
killed three young girls in Hajipur village in Yadadri - Bhuvanagiri district,
gory details emerged about the accused modus operandi which are sending chills
down the spine. He used to keep an eye on the movement of the girls in Hazipur
village Bhuvanagiri-Yadadri district. Rachakonda police say that the accused had
a set pattern to work out his murder plan meticulously.
Srinivas has admitted to
burying P Sravani (14) and Maneesha (17) in the well, and also admitted of
sexually assaulting, killing and burying Kalpana (12), who was reported missing
four years ago, from the village. The skeletal remains of Kalpana, who was
buried around six feet deep in another well were recovered late on Tuesday
night.That's not all. In 2017, when he along with three others were working in
Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh, they had called a sex worker to their room and later
killed her for some money issues.
Victims: 4 (yet there are more to be confirmed)
Punishment issued : Death Penalty (not yet confirmed)
Convictions: Rape, Murder, child abuse, Strangulation, Harassment,
Span of crimes: 2014 – 2019
Analysing Stages Leading to the Crime
Analysing the stages leading to the crimes committed by serial killers reveals
several key factors. Firstly, most serial killers derive great satisfaction from
the act of killing, distinguishing them from one-time murderers who may kill
incidentally to conceal another crime. This satisfaction stems from a chronic
and overwhelming need to commit murder, often driven by insecurities and fear of
rejection.
Many serial killers, such as David Berkowitz, Ted Bundy, and Joel
Rifkin, experienced rejection or abandonment by their birth mothers in early
childhood, leading to deep-seated emotional trauma. This trauma may manifest as
a desire to avoid painful relationships in adulthood, resulting in the
elimination of objects of affection through murder to pre-empt potential
rejection or hurt.
Additionally, a report from 2005 on serial homicide highlights that serial
killers select victims based on three main factors: availability, vulnerability,
and desirability. Availability refers to the accessibility of victims, often
determined by their lifestyle or circumstances that provide the offender with
access for an attack.
Vulnerability measures the extent to which victims are
at-risk or susceptible to attack, with factors such as being alone at night
increasing vulnerability. Desirability, on the other hand, is subjective and
relates to the attractiveness or appeal of the victim to the offender, including
characteristics such as race, gender, age, and other specific criteria
established by the serial killer.
In summary, the stages leading to the crimes committed by serial killers involve
complex psychological and situational factors, including unresolved childhood
trauma, fear of rejection, and the selection of victims based on availability,
vulnerability, and desirability. Understanding these stages is crucial for
developing effective prevention and intervention strategies to address serial
homicide.
Into the Terrific Minds of Serial Killers
It's undeniable that popular TV shows like CID Crime Investigation Department
and others often depict gruesome details of murders, and while the primary goal
is to bring justice to the victims, there's a curious fascination with
understanding the minds of the murderers. Society, in a similar vein, has become
somewhat obsessed with popularizing serial killers, putting them in the
limelight for entertainment purposes.
This phenomenon reflects a broader
societal curiosity about the darker aspects of human psychology and behaviour.
However, it's essential to approach this fascination with caution and
sensitivity, recognizing the real-life tragedies behind these crimes and the
importance of focusing on victims' stories and seeking justice rather than
glorifying the perpetrators.
Characteristics of Serial Killers
Serial killers possess a complex array of characteristics that have evolved over
time. While historical records of serial killers were not accurately documented
until recent times, their motivations have shifted from seeking power or revenge
to pursuing personal gain or sexual gratification in modern times. Despite
appearing normal on the surface, serial killers harbour a deadly nature beneath
the facade. They are individuals who commit multiple murders over an extended
period.
Although there is no single characteristic shared by all serial killers,
common traits include a history of killing small animals during adolescence,
high intelligence, poor family life, and a history of mental, physical, or
sexual abuse, as well as substance abuse. While not all killers exhibit these
signs, they serve as potential warning signals.
The fascination with serial
killers stems from society's intrigue with the darker aspects of human nature
and the reflection of their own deepest fears and desires in these monstrous
individuals. Serial killers, in a sense, embody the result of years of
loneliness, overthinking, and disturbed psyche, making them both terrifying and
intriguing to society.
Motives Of Serial Killer
Psychological Gratification:
- Motivated by sex
- Thrill-seeking
- Anger
- Financial Gain
- Attention seeking
It is believed that few of the motives are myths and they cannot stop killing
people but, all these myths stayed as myths it is solely the perpetrator will to
either stop killing or not.
Role of Forensic
The role of forensic science in criminal investigations, particularly in cases
involving serial killers, is multifaceted and crucial in securing convictions.
While forensic science may not always directly identify the perpetrator, it
plays a vital role in solidifying probative evidence against captured suspects.
Over the past two decades, significant advancements in forensic science and
criminal psychology have greatly aided law enforcement in capturing serial
killers.
Forensic science serves various functions in these investigations. Firstly, it
plays a pivotal role in the identification of human remains, especially in cases
where victims have been mutilated or dismembered by the killer. Additionally,
forensic experts can determine the source of bite marks found on victims or
other objects, providing valuable evidence for prosecution. Moreover, forensic
methods can estimate the age of skeletal remains, aiding investigators in
establishing a timeline of the crimes.
In court, forensic scientists can testify on various aspects, such as dental
malpractice or the identification and comparison of dental structures to link
suspects to bite marks found at crime scenes. This form of evidence can be
particularly compelling in securing convictions.
Overall, while citizens and surviving victims often contribute valuable
information leading to arrests, forensic science plays an indispensable role in
providing concrete evidence to support prosecution efforts. From identifying
human remains to analysing bite marks, forensic techniques help strengthen cases
against serial killers and contribute to ensuring justice for their victims.
Conclusion
Serial murder is indeed a rare and complex phenomenon, making it challenging to
conduct thorough research. Unlike what popular media might suggest, there is no
singular personality profile that all serial killers fit into. However, certain
common characteristics have been observed among them. One such trait is a
history of criminal involvement, often involving petty crimes or antisocial
behaviour.
Additionally, many serial killers possess a rich fantasy life that can fuel
their desire to commit murder. These fantasies may be intensified by factors
such as pornography, alcohol, or drug use. Moreover, serial killers often
collect items or trophies from their victims or crime scenes. These objects
serve as mementos that allow the killer to relive the murder and can even
trigger future killings.
Given the complexity and rarity of serial murder, there is a clear need for more
empirical research in this field. By better understanding the psychological and
behavioural patterns of serial killers, researchers and law enforcement agencies
can develop more effective strategies for prevention, intervention, and
prosecution.
Further Research
To advance research and understanding in the field of serial murder, several key
steps must be taken. First and foremost, a universally accepted definition of
serial murder is essential to serve as a standard for future research endeavours.
This clarity is vital to avoid confusion and ensure consistency across studies.
Additionally, traditional typologies used to classify serial killers may need to
be reconsidered, with alternative approaches such as the instrumental-affective
dimensional approach warranting exploration.
Furthermore, theoretical models must be developed, tested, and refined to
provide a framework for understanding the complex motivations and behaviours of
serial killers. A robust theoretical foundation can significantly advance both
research and practical applications in the field.
Moreover, there is a critical need for more research focused on prediction, not
only to narrow down suspects in related murders but also to understand the
underlying factors contributing to serial murder and identify potential
interventions.
It's important to recognize that serial killers vary widely in their motivations
and behaviours, making it challenging to develop a generic template. However,
certain traits such as a lack of remorse, impulsiveness, lack of control, and
predatory behaviour are common among some serial murderers. Ultimately, serial
killers are skilled manipulators who can justify their actions to themselves and
others, underscoring the complexity of their psychological makeup.
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Written By: Mr.Ashish Dhabuwala
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