NCJ Number
196336
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 46 Issue: 4 Dated: August 2002 Pages: 453-465
Date Published
August 2002
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This article explores potential links between serial killers and service in the military.
Abstract
Arguing that most research conducted on serial killers tends to be exploratory rather than explanatory, this article examines possible linkages between serial killers and military service. After introducing the idea of serial murder and defining it as murders that are committed sequentially or in repetition, the authors argue that contrary to common assumption, serial killers are not insane, but do suffer from personality disorders. Arguing that serial killers may learn antisocial behaviors from various environments, this article suggests that the military environment promotes violence and teaches individuals to kill. Following a discussion of learning theory, the authors apply this idea to serial homicides, arguing that serial murder can be both learned and unlearned. While suggesting that the military is a social group which provides potential serial murders with the associations and reinforcements to learn to kill and how to kill, the authors caution that previous military experience is not present in the case of all serial killers. Contending that it is likely that other variables also influence serial murderers, this article concludes that it is possible that future serial killers might be attracted to military service. References