CUP Undergraduate Research
Title
The Relationship between Insecure Attachment and Serial Murder: A Persuasive Literature Review
Date of Award
Spring 4-1-2010
Document Type
Restricted Access Thesis
College
College of Theology, Arts, & Sciences
Department
Psychology
Degree Name
Psychology, BA
First Advisor
Erin Mueller, PhD
Abstract
This literature review examines the effect of insecure attachment and how it relates to antisocial behavior and serial killing. Abuse and familial and social relationships, along with the appearance of psychological and personality disorders, are analyzed to understand their effects on the developing person. Select case studies of serial murderers are reviewed. This paper compares male serial killers with female child serial murderers. Trends found among serial murders include a history neglect and abuse by caretakers which may develop into insecure attachment. Personality disorders and extensive criminal histories are also prevalent. As expected, a relationship exists between insecure attachment, the development of an antisocial personality, and the formation of a serial killer, regardless of sex or age. If the sources of the development of serial murderers are understood, then efforts can be made towards finding solutions to amend the problem.