Anonymous asked this question on 5/5/2000:

What are 3 types of psychological profiles used for profiling serial killers?

d_ottr gave this response on 5/5/2000:

It's interesting that you ask this question, because I just started reading a book by a former FBI profiler entitled, "Journey Into Darkness." At this point, I'm not sure if I can givew you an answer based on three TYPES of profiles, but perhaps this can help:

A couple components of a serial killer's crime include his modus operandi, or the WAY he commits a particular crime. This includes any kind of crime, not just homicide. HOW does he do the deed? Does he strangle, stab, shoot, torture, or what. Some of these may also lead to a serial killer's SIGNATURE. What is it that this perpetrator does that is unique and could lead to his apprehension? In many cases, the dismemberment of the body is a signature. Some leave things behind, others take trophies, such as jewelry, body parts, pictures. etc. Finally, what is the killer's NEED? In every case, the killer fulfills a NEED by commission of this crime. Maybe it's revenge, maybe it's because he is rejected by women or society, and often it's actually a sexual need. Some Serial killers defile the body AFTER the homicide, rather than BEFORE. SOmetimes they masturbate over the remains, or in a more private, secure place while reminiscing about the crime. All this sounds rather bizarre, but someone else has done the research on this, I am relaying it to you! There is a lot more to this. If you have a more specific question about this, or if you need clarification, please recontact me. I will be more than happy to help out.

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