The study of the criminal mind has been a topic of constant interest for forensic psychology and criminology. Murderers are one of the most studied and fascinating types of criminals in this field. Throughout history, certain common psychological traits and profiles have been identified among individuals who have committed acts of murder.
1. Cold and calculating
One of the most common traits in the psychological profile of a murderer is his ability to act in a cold and calculating manner. These individuals often carefully plan their crimes, showing a high degree of emotional control and rationality in their actions. They can act calmly and without showing remorse during and even after committing the homicidal act.
Personality Manifestation
This trait is reflected in the personality of the murderer, showing a lack of empathy and a tendency to manipulate others to achieve their goals. They may seem charming and persuasive in their outward appearance, but in reality they lack genuine feelings towards others.
2. Patterns of Antisocial Behavior
Murderers often show a history of antisocial behavior from a young age. They may have had behavioral problems in childhood, such as cruelty to animals or frequent fighting. In addition, it is common for them to have difficulties complying with social and legal norms.
Violent behavior
These individuals may have shown signs of aggression and violence in their interactions with others, which which may have been an indication of his latent murderous tendencies. The lack of empathy and remorse plays a fundamental role in their ability to commit violent acts without hesitation.
3. Underlying mental disorders
Although not all murderers suffer from diagnosable mental disorders, it is common for them to present certain psychological imbalances that can influence their homicidal behavior. Disorders such as psychopathy, schizophrenia or antisocial personality disorder may be present in some cases.
Psychopathy
Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by a lack of empathy, manipulation and the inability to feel remorse or guilt. Psychopathic murderers can carry out violent acts coldly and without showing signs of remorse.
4. Childhood trauma and abuse
Childhood trauma and abuse can play a crucial role in the development of a future murderer. Many individuals who commit acts of extreme violence have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in their childhood, which may have contributed to the distortion of their way of relating to others and processing their emotions.
Impact in the psychology of the individual
Abuse and trauma can lead to a series of psychological problems in adult life, such as post-traumatic stress disorders, personality disorders, and difficulties regulating emotions. These factors can trigger violent and aggressive behavior in certain circumstances.
5. Emotional disorganization
Murderers often show notable emotional disorganization in their lives, which manifests itself in a lack of control over their emotions and the inability to regulate their behavior appropriately. They may experience bursts of anger, impulsivity, and episodes of depression or anxiety.
Emotional vulnerability
This emotional disorganization can make murderers especially vulnerable to external triggers that lead them to commit crimes. violent acts. The combination of this vulnerability with their lack of empathy and rationality can result in tragic consequences for those around them.
6. Violent Fantasies and Obsessions
Murderers often have violent fantasies and obsessions that fuel their homicidal impulses. They can mentally recreate scenarios of extreme violence and experience pleasure when imagining carrying out criminal acts. These fantasies can act as a catalyst for the commission of an actual murder.
Preparatory Behavior
Before committing a murder, individuals may go through a planning and fantasy process that allows you to satisfy your homicidal desires in advance. This preparatory phase may include the selection of the victim, the search for weapons and the development of a detailed plan to carry out the crime.
In conclusion, the psychological profile of the murderer is a complex issue that involves a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors. The traits described above are just some of the most common among individuals who commit acts of murder. It is important to remember that each case is unique and that determining a psychological profile should not lead to stigmatization or simplification of the reasons behind a crime as serious as murder.