What Makes a Serial Killer?

What makes a serial killer? Some people think that they are genetically pre-disposed to such behavior. Others argue that they are products of their often dysfunctional environments. Neither theory has been proven yet however, behavioral science experts have noticed several similarities in the traits and upbringings of serial killers. In September of 1984, a meeting of the International Association of Forensic Sciences was held. Professors Ralph D'Agostino and Ann W. Burgess, along with FBI behavioral specialists Robert Ressler and John Douglas, created an essay on serial killers. The essay was based on a study of thirty-six incarcerated murderers. The experts took note of the similarities between them.

Through this study, they concluded that a majority of serial killers are highly intelligent white males. Although they are very smart, many of them do not excel in school. Many of them are unable to hold a steady job.

More often than not, serial killers come from troubled or broken homes. They are usually abandoned by their fathers and grow up in a female-dominated household. Many times there is a family history of mental illness, alcoholism and criminal behavior. They are often the victims of psychological, sexual or physical abuse (or any combination of the three). This abuse can result in lasting feelings of intimidation, embarrassment and helplessness. They grow up resenting their absent/abusive fathers and tend to transfer these feelings to other/all men. Many of them harbor feelings of animosity towards females because of domination by their mothers. They tend to become very misanthropic and antisocial.

Many serial killers exhibit signs of mental problems as children and have suicidal tendencies as teenagers. They often form deviant sexual habits and preferences. Some form fetishes that are considered socially undesirable. Some are infatuated with pornography. Others have voyeuristic sexual practices.

It is not to say that all people who exhibit these characteristics are (potential) serial killers. They are merely common factors and traits observed among a group of convicted murderers.

The experts also noted some childhood behaviors in these killers that can be considered potential warning signs of disturbed behavior. These three traits have been nicknamed the "Psychopathological Triad."

The first of these behaviors is enuresis, more commonly known as bed-wetting. This behavior is completely normal and common in small children. If the behavior continues into the pubescent years however, it may be a sign of an emotionally disturbed individual. Studies have shown that sixty percent of serial killers have experienced such behavior.

Pyromania is the second of these behaviors. Many serial killers became sexually aroused by the act of setting fire to things. They derive a certain sense of power from causing destruction and are often delighted to watch things burn.

The last and most disturbing is animal torture. Children or adolescents who take pleasure in hurting other living things may be in need of psychological help. For some it is a passing phase that is looked back upon with shame and regret. For others who continue to enjoy such behavior and show no remorse for it, it can be a serious problem. The viciousness and violence increase over time and are eventually directed at human beings. Animals are merely practice for such people.

I will be doing a series of follow-up articles in which I discuss specific types of serial killers and their distinctive traits and signatures.