Signs Of Being A Serial Killer Essay

Early Childhood Signs of Being a Serial Killer
Have you ever wondered what signs to watch for in children that could possibly lead to them becoming a serial killer? There are many questions on what defines a serial killer, was it caused by their surroundings at infancy, or perhaps born with certain traits that influenced them to committing violence? However, none of these signs are a definite probability that the child is going to grow up murdering others, but with knowing these potential warning signs you could get your child help as soon as possible.
You always want to start with the obvious. If the child has had any type of childhood abuse such as physical, psychological, or sexual abuse, this could cause a child to lash out on others from what has happened to them and inflict the same type of humiliation and feeling of being helpless. “Accessible research material tells us violent sexual events during childhood have serious adverse effects on an individual’s development. This research into child abuse serves as compelling confirmation that serial killers are made, not born” (Gerber, 2013).
Pay special attention to children who are very socially awkward with others and have no friends. These children could feel lonely as if they have no one who cares for them. They usually start by

acting out with theft, using dangerous weapons, being hostile, showing aggression, and having a complete disregard for others.
One of the strongest signs to watch for is if a child is torturing or killing small animals.

Although at such a young age some children are curious and may just be experimenting, but if killing animals with no remorse keeps occurring I would question the reasoning. “When the pain and death is inflicted upon a living creature which shows emotions of distress and suffering, something is seriously wrong with the child torturing the poor creatures” (Gadson, 2011). This act of animal cruelty pleasures young killers and gives them that sense of being in control. Once they manage to perfect the art completely these children will later perform these same acts on other human

victims.


Another potential sign could be a child bedwetting. “Over 60% of serial killers wet the bed past the age of 12, so watch out it may be more than simple nightmares and slow development” (Gadson, 2011). Some children may be frightened by certain things happening in their household such as abuse or violence, which can cause extended bedwetting. If the parents or authority figure is teasing the child or belittling them about it will cause a child to feel humiliated causing low self-esteem.
“Caretakers that partake in substance abuse and/or criminal activity may support the child’s faulty behavior and perceptions” (Weatherby, Buller, & McGinnis, 2009). Many serial killers have come from unstable homes where the parents are either criminals, alcoholics, or have mental issues themselves.
“Arson is psychologically attractive because it involves manipulating power and control, something that serial killing also offers” (National Museum of Crime & Punishment, 2014).