Serial Murderers in Germany from 1945 to 1995

Abstract

The total number of serial murderers who were convicted between 1945 and 1995 in the Federal Republic of Germany (N = 61) are described in terms of their characteristics, with reference to sociodemographics, family background, social integration, intellectual capability, and personality disorders. A comparison with a larger sample of German single murderers from a previous study shows that the serial perpetrators appear to constitute a particular class of homicide offenders. In particular, the serial murderers have a higher likelihood of personality disorder, cerebral anomalies, and offense premeditation and are more likely to have had no relationship with the victim prior to the offense. With respect to differentiation among serial murderers, differences become apparent between serial murderers whose offenses have a strong sexual component (n = 22) and the remainder of the sample. Finally, the limited capacity of modus operandi and signature for linking cases in ongoing investigations is discussed.

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