Keywords

Criminal profiling; Behavioral analysis; Violent crime; Serial offenders; Crime scene analysis; Criminal motivation

Abstract

This study examines the role of psychological profiling in apprehending violent criminals. Psychological profiling involves analyzing behavioral patterns at crime scenes, exploring the relationships between victims, and identifying characteristics and tendencies of offenders. It is currently used by many law enforcement agencies across the country to narrow down a pool of potential suspects and direct researchers, making the most of the limited manpower available. There is, however, a significant limitation in the literature and available evidence that suggests its tenets may be based on intuition and anecdotal evidence purported by investigators, subject to internal bias and thus should not be considered an empirically validated science or discipline.  As such, some studies have found that the cognitive bias of the profilers themselves may have hindered 24.5% of the investigations involved (Trager & Brewster, 2001). This thesis examines the history and application of psychological profiling in the modern era using the work of theorists: Plato, Freud, Nietzsche, Schopenhauer, Kant, Samenow, and Von Helmholtz. Then applying the work of these theorists using the acts committed by Hitler, The Boston Strangler, The Unabomber, Bundy, Son of Sam, BTK and The Zodiac. Findings suggest that criminal profiling is a valuable tool amongst the many that help solve what appear to be unreasonable acts of violence. Recommendations from this thesis can inform both the academic and professional communities about its utility and value in identifying and apprehending violent criminals in contemporary society.

Thesis Completion Year

2026

Thesis Completion Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair

Holmes, Stephen

College

College of Community Innovation and Education

Department

Criminal Justice

Thesis Discipline

Criminal Justice

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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