Date
8-7-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Human Services
Abstract
Using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative literature review and qualitative case study analysis, this capstone investigates the developmental pathways of serial killers. The study investigates a variety of biological, psychological, and sociological elements—such as genetic predispositions, neurological disorders, childhood traumas, and environmental stressors—interact to shape serial killers. The study offers a multidisciplinary perspective, grounded in criminological models such as routine activity and labeling theories, sociological frameworks such as social disorganization and strain theory, and psychological theories such as psychopathy and attachment theory. Theoretical findings are contextualized through case studies of notorious serial killers like Ted Bundy, Jeffrey Dahmer, and Samuel Little, and the impact of sensationalism and bias on societal understanding of serial murder is evaluated through an analysis of media representation and public perception. Research limitations include limited access to firsthand psychological evaluations and reliance on secondary data. The project also discusses evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies, such as therapeutic interventions, early risk assessments, law enforcement training, and community-based programs. The findings are intended to guide future research into early intervention and violence prevention, as well as to inform criminal justice and human services practices. The capstone concludes that serial killing is not the result of a single factor but rather the convergence of multiple variables over time.
Keywords: biological, psychological, sociological factor, genetic predispositions