Date of Conferral

12-3-2025

Date of Award

December 2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Wayne Wallace

Abstract

Historically, studies on serial murderers have not concentrated in depth on analyzing what psychosocial factors are or how they could influence a man to become a serial killer. The focus of this qualitative study was on the psychosocial characteristics of male serial killers that are from, and based in, the United States. Using a case study analysis approach, the life course of serial killers in the FGCU Radford Database was analyzed to identify themes of adverse childhood experiences such as physical, emotional, or psychological abuse; abandonment by parent or guardian; limited or no social bonds; witnessing abuse; and signs of antisocial and criminal behavior, such as violence towards animals or a criminal record. The goal was to identify which psychosocial factors influenced U.S. based male serial killers and how psychosocial factors can differ amongst a group of five male serial killers from the United States. The results of this study show the impact that psychosocial characteristics have in the development of a serial killer. This study found that when examined through the lens of general strain theory, it is evident that early life adversity and developmental trauma, psychological and social isolation, and maladaptive behavioral and functional patterns have a profound impact in the development of a male serial killer in the United Stated. Ultimately, it is evident through these themes that the development of a serial killer cannot rest on one aspect but rather stems from complex yet common life experiences. As a result, this study has confirmed previous findings, and contribute to positive social change by assisting in furthering research, or assisting with the identification and capture of violent, serial offenders.

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