Serial killers: I. Subtypes, patterns, and motives

Part I of this two-part article outlines the history of serial killing and describes the varying patterns and motives for this type of crime. It reviews the assorted typologies of serial killers that have been elaborated by different researchers and offers an integrative classification of primary serial killer subtypes. In addition to the commonly cited male, heterosexual, solitary sadistic sexual homicide offender, this article describes a number of subpopulations of serial killers, including sadist–masochist, female, couple, homosexual, and professional serial killers. Part II will examine the developmental factors, neuropsychodynamics, and forensic applications of serial killing.