Date of Conferral

6-4-2025

Date of Award

June 2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Eric Hickey

Abstract

Female serial killers represent a minority in criminal statistics; their cases offer significant insights regarding broader patterns of serial killing behavior. The purpose of this study is to understand the role masculine traits play in the lives of female serial killers. This study involved using a qualitative research method to understand specific characteristics of female serial killers with common masculine traits and childhood experiences. Common masculine traits researched in this study were lack of emotions, aggression, control, dominance, and manipulation. The trauma control model and the gender scheme theory were the theoretical frameworks for this study. Data were collected by categorizing source types and their relevance to each research question and manual coding. Data were verified for consistency and credibility while highlighting correlations between masculine traits and criminal activity and life history. This study addressed 15 female serial killers between the ages of 14 and 54 via the Radford/FGCU Serial Killer Database. Thematic analysis generated 6 themes: trauma, no trauma, early observation of gender roles, calm, violent tendencies, and homicidal behavior. The results indicate masculine traits, particularly aggression and control, were notably linked to the killers’ motives and methods. Female serial killers are often driven by a need for control or power. They manifest violent tendencies toward those viewed as weak, vulnerable, or dependent. Social change implications include shifting expectations as passive-nurturing towards understanding unique motivations, social contexts, and psychological profiles of female serial killers. Providing social awareness and challenging stereotypes about gender and crime, revealing complex realities of violence which transcend gender norms.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

 
COinS