Date of Conferral
2020
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Psychology
Advisor
Christopher K. Bass
Abstract
Many studies have been conducted to identify sources of violence in serial killers, including environmental, biological, and mental disposition factors. However, serial killers’ sexual fantasies had not been explored. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive phenomenological study was to understand how sexual fantasies influence serial killers’ violent behavior. The theoretical framework consisted of ecological systems theory and social learning theory. Data from previously conducted interviews, serial killers’ manifestos, and historical records were used to conduct a comparative analysis of the behaviors, techniques, and identification signatures of serial killers. Data were coded and categorized to identify the relationship between sexual fantasies and violent behavior. Results indicated that serial killers base their signatures and modus operandi on sexual fantasies developed through childhood traumatic experiences. Findings may be used to improve the profiling of suspects and mitigate the threat of serial killers’ violent behavior resulting in positive social change.
Recommended Citation
Rogers, Jared Matthew, "Factors That Influence Violence and Homicidal Ideation Among Serial Offenders" (2020). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 9636.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/9636
