Assignment:
Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:
One criticism of psychological profiling is the tendency for police to believe the expert, even if the profile is mistaken on key variables, which may divert them from meaningful leads. This was exemplified in the search for the D.C. snipers in 2002. Do you think this is a common danger for profiling? If so, how would you control this risk?
Select a serial murder case from the following list for review:
- John Wayne Gacy
- Jack the Ripper
- Wayne Williams
- Jeffrey Dahmer
- Herman Mudgett
- Richard Ramirez
- Gary Ridgway
- Aileen Wuornos
- Ed Gein
- David Berkowitz
- Hamilton Howard "Albert" Fish
- Ted Bundy
Analyze the case to identify specific psychological characteristics and patterns that might be inferred about the individual.
Document your findings in a 1,750 to 2,100 word paper that includes the following elements:
- Behavioral variables, including a review of signature and modus operandi
- Repetitive patterns evident in criminal acts
- Possible issues in development and life experience that may be identified as possible causes for prevalent criminality and psychopathology
Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.