Serial Homicide

Catalog description

This course is intended to introduce and explore the phenomenon of repetitive, intrinsically motivated homicide utilizing both clinical and law enforcement perspectives. Primary behavioral and crime scene characteristics of both organized and disorganized types of offenders are reviewed to explain the incidence of serial homicide as a function of motivational factors ranging from sociopathy to severe psychiatric disturbance. The varied typologies and classification systems for serial murderers is presented as a means of discussing issues ranging from victim selection to law enforcement investigative responsibilities. The course relies heavily upon a detailed case study format which scrutinizes the crimes of key selected offenders and allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to particular serial perpetrators.