Escrito por Nuria Querol i Viñas | 16 Julio 2006
Posted in Articles - Articles Hits: 1057

Based on five case studies of serial murderers, we contribute to the existing literature by exploring the possible link between childhood cruelty toward animals and serial murder with the application of the graduation hypothesis.

Int J Offender Ther Comp Criminol. 2003 Feb;47(1):71-88.

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From animal cruelty to serial murder: applying the graduation hypothesis.

Wright J, Hensley C.

Institute for Correctional Research and Training, 114 Rader Hall, Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 40351, USA.

Although serial murder has been recorded for centuries, limited academic attention has been given to this important topic. Scholars have attempted to examine the causality and motivations behind the rare phenomenon of serial murder. However, scant research exists which delves into the childhood characteristics of serial murderers. Using social learning theory, some of these studies present supporting evidence for a link between childhood animal cruelty and adult aggression toward humans. Based on five case studies of serial murderers, we contribute to the existing literature by exploring the possible link between childhood cruelty toward animals and serial murder with the application of the graduation hypothesis.

Publication Types:

• Case Reports
• Review

PMID: 12613433 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]