PSYCH 448Psychology of Female Serial Killers

3 credits · Psychology · Penn State

In this course, students will examine means, motives, and makings of female serial killers. We will discuss perpetrators, crimes, and victims to delve into the psychology of the female perpetrator of serial homicide. Factors discussed include traumagenic experiences, mental illness, substance use, brain and neurological considerations, evolutionary psychology, and historical, gender, and cultural influences. We will also compare the backgrounds and crimes of female serial killers to those of male serial killers to elucidate similarities and differences. Course work is based on scientific readings, valid, nonbiased media reports, court documents, and other well-referenced resources.