Examines the social causes of serial murders.
This paper looks at the approach traditionally taken to explain the motivations and actions of serial murderers and then goes on to explain why this approach alone is inadequate. The paper then suggests that, in order to explain the actions and motivations of a serial murderer, it is important to look at the societal factors, as well as the psychological factors, that may contribute to the makings of a serial murderer. Finally, the paper then discusses some of these potential contributing factors.
“The definition of serial killing has in the past more commonly focused on the individual’s psychological makeup and psychopathology rather than sociological aspects. However, researchers have begun to realize the importance of societal influences – in combination with the psychological aspects – and the part that these factors play in the causes and underlying reasons for serial killings.”