|
|
This is only a preview of the paper
Click here to register and get the full text.
Existing members click here to login
|
|
|
In order for one to understand the motives of a serial killer, one must first understand the traits inherent in most serial murderers. These include understanding the definition of a serial killer, the common characteristics they possess and the horrific childhoods many endure. Also, one must examine the biological and/or psychological reasons for the heinous crimes which serial killers commit. Theodore Robert Bundy, although one of the most prolific serial killers of our time, is an exception to many of these criteria.
To define serial murder it’s important to understand the difference between a serial murderer and a mass murderer. The most important difference between the two is that a serial killer includes any person, male or female who kills over a certain period of time which could be days, weeks or even years. ... A serial killer will murder indefinitely and will not stop until incarcerated or institutionalized. ... Serial killers, by contrast, usually make special efforts to elude detection.” (Hickey 5) Another distinguishing factor is that serial killers often kill absolute strangers, while mass murderers usually kill people they have been acquainted with such as family or coworkers. Serial killers have a “cool down” period between their murders which can last from as little as a day to as long as a year. ... Unlike mass murderers who often snap at the outcome of an event or benefits from the killing, serial killers’ reasons for killing often stem from troubled childhood or psychological defects. ... Ted Bundy fits the basic criteria for a serial murderer; however, Bundy does not possess most of the common characteristics of a serial killer.
A serial killer is usually a white male, aging from 25-35, who prefers to kill victims of his own race. ... Serial killers come from all social classes, rich and poor alike. Victims are almost always strangers and their ages vary between a serial killer’s personal interests. When selecting victims, all serial murderers choose victims who are strangers whom they feel they can dominate. “Serial killers rarely seek out those who are as physically or intellectually capable as themselves.
Approximate Word count = 1709
Approximate Pages = 6.8
(250 words per page double spaced)
|
|
|
|
|
|