lali2002 asked this question on 3/5/2000:
Hi, I have to do a Research project on Serial Killers, im not sure how to start it, all i find is examples of them. Nothing really intresting. i was wondering if anyone can help with absolutely anything. I'm trying to maybe, discover something unknown, or simply a way to make my project different and unique. My thesis sentence is.. Although serial killers' actions stem from their early childhood, they should still be held accountable for their crimes. Any opinions, facts or ideas, will be really appreciated. Thanks Lali
Ivanka gave this response on 3/6/2000:
I got this information from this site with a lot of other info you should check out. Maybe it will give you some ideas! Perhaps you could do comparrison between the need serial killers have to "play a role" with people who display multiple personalities. Check out the site though. It's good and very thorough!
http://crimelibrary.com/serials/what/whatmain.htm
CONTENTS:
Monsters or Victims?
Family Tree
Childhood Abuse
Dahmer Case
Childhood Events
Psychopaths?
Lustmord
Are They Insane?
Natural Born Killers
Deadly Fantasies
The Last Straw
Social Evils
Conclusion
Bibliography
The Author
Home
What Makes Serial Killers Tick? by Shirley Lynn Scott
Monsters or Victims?
Mask of Sanity
Because of their psychopathic nature, serial killers do not know how to feel sympathy for others, or even how to have a relationship. Instead, they learn to simulate it by observing others. It is all a manipulative act, designed to entice people into their trap. Serial killers are actors with a natural penchant for performance. Henry Lee Lucas described being a serial killer as "being like a movie-star . . . you're just playing the part." The macabre Gacy loved to dress up as a clown, while the Zodiac suited up in a bizarre executioner's costume that looked like something out of "Alice in Wonderland." In court, Bundy told the judge "I'm disguised as an attorney today." Bundy had previously "disguised" himself as a compassionate rape crisis center counselor.
The most coveted role of roaming psychopaths is a position of authority. Gacy was an active, outgoing figure in business and society, became a member of the Jaycees. Many joined the military, including Berkowitz who was intensely patriotic for a time. Playing police officer, however, is the most predictable. Carrying badges and driving coplike vehicles not only feeds their need to feel important, it allows them access to victims who would otherwise trust their instincts and not talk to strangers.
I hope this helps! (please remember to rate my answer) Ivanka
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