15 Interesting Facts About Serial Killers

Introduction:

Serial killers fascinate and repulse us in equal measure. But how much do we really know about them? Here, we offer an intriguing look at fifteen of the most interesting facts about these notorious figures in history. From personal backgrounds and psychological motivations to methodologies, this list has it all–so read on for a deeper look into the world of serial killers.

Fact 1: Serial Killers are Relative Rarities

Despite the attention they have garnered, serial killers are actually quite rare. The FBI estimates that these figures make up for only one percent of all the murder cases in the United States. Books and movies tend to over-represent this group and can make it seem like they are more commonplace than they really are.

Fact 2: The Age of Serial Killers Can Vary

Serial killers are usually viewed as adult figures, but some have started their careers at much younger ages. Several killers, including Mary Bell, started acting when they were only 11, and some have even started at eight. On the other hand, the majority of serial killers begin their ways in their late twenties.

Fact 3: Serial Killers are Usually Male

serial killers are mainly men, with only an estimated 15 percent of cases involving female killers. Females usually kill fewer victims than men do, and may have more empathetic and protective motives than male killers. In addition, some famous female killers have attained numerous lovers or admirers.

Fact 4: Serial Killers Have Low IQs

Most serial killers score in the low-average range on IQ tests, but some display intelligence that is slightly above average. It’s important to note, however, that high intelligence is not a major factor in killing sprees— simply put, IQ is not an indicator of serial killer tendencies.

Fact 5: Serial Killers Display Para-Social Behavior

Serial killers may show Para-Social behavior, which is characterized by strong attachments to fictional characters. This behavior can help serial killers stay emotionally disconnected from their victims and can give them a sense of moral justification for their actions.

Fact 6: Serial Killers Have Distinctive Personality Traits

As a general rule, serial killers display narcissistic, antisocial, and psychopathic traits. These individuals may be calculating and careful in their methods, or they may act impulsively and out of anger. Such behavior usually begins to manifest in adolescence.

Fact 7: Serial Killers Often Got Victimize in Their Childhood

Many serial killers experienced abuse as children, often by an elder in the household. This can affect a child’s moral and emotional development, leading to disturbed adult behavior. In extreme cases, serial killers can believe that their victims deserve to be punished for the wrongs that were inflicted on them as children.

Fact 8: Serial Killers Are Driven by Control

The majority of serial killers seek to gain control over their victims and feel empowered by their actions. These individuals may use specific strategies to maintain control, such as drugging or manipulating their victims. Psychological control can be even more powerful for some serial killers— the sense of being able to control, manipulate, and ultimately end a life can bring about a feeling of personal liberation or satisfaction.

Fact 9: Serial Killers Seek Excitement & Thrill

Serial killers are typically motivated by thrill-seeking behavior. They want to experience the rush of excitement that comes with taking a life, and they may look for greater and more dangerous challenges with each new victim. Serial killers have been known to place themselves in dangerous situations or use high-risk strategies to keep their thrill levels elevated.

Fact 10: Serial Killers Operate In Different Locations

Some serial killers are confined to a single area, while others may move about to different locations. The latter type of killer is often referred to as a “nomadic” or “traveling” killer. Serial killers who travel often seek out new victims in isolated, secluded areas, such as interstate highways.

Fact 11: Serial Killers Have Different Religious Beliefs

Serial killers profess an array of religious beliefs, ranging from atheism to religious fundamentalism. While some serial killers believe that their actions are justified by their religious beliefs, others may simply use religion as a mask to drive their own agendas.

Fact 12: Serial Killers Operate in Different Time Periods

There have been serial killers throughout history, and some have even been active for multiple decades. However, serial killings are most commonly associated with modern times, as perpetrators now have better access to weapons, technology, and transportation.

Fact 13: Serial Killers Use Different Techniques & Tools

The methods used by serial killers vary greatly. Common tools include rigged traps, strangulation, bludgeoning, and chemical poising. Some serial killers also employ psychological manipulation and perpetrate their crimes through mail and online interactions.

Fact 14: Serial Killers Have Different Reasons to Kill

Serial killers may have different reasons for killing, depending on their individual motives. Some kill for revenge, while others may be motivated by anger, power, or a desire to be famous. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that a single killer may have any number of motives driving their behavior.

Fact 15: Serial Killers Have Different Methods of Disposing of Bodies

Serial killers often take measures to conceal the bodies of their victims. Common tactics include burying or cremating the body, dismembering it, or dumping it into a lake or river. Some advanced killers will even go to surprising lengths to make sure the remains of their victims are never found.

Conclusion

Serial killers continue to tempt our curiosity, and while there may be some common threads between them, the mystery of these individuals and their motivations remain. Their actions remain disturbing and complex, and these fifteen facts provide a glimpse into the complex and fascinating world of serial killers.