The psychology of murderers and their victims

How do murderers choose their victims? As with anything in criminal psychology, the answer to this question is far from simple. Murder can arise out of a variety of contexts and types of encounters. In this module, you will learn which factors we need to consider when exploring murderers and their victims. Murder can arise out of a variety of interactions. We all know not to get in the car with a stranger don’t we? But what about our spouse’s and our family member’s? Victims can be strangers, loved ones, gang members, stalkers and so on. In this course we will examine the various types of victims and the psychological interaction between the murderers and victims. The psychology behind those who murder once and those who murder multiple times can vary greatly. It is also important to recognize the range of circumstances that murder can arise from. This course covers the following modules:

• Relationships with the victim

• Victims of serial killers

• Single murders

• Familicide

• Why do they kill their family?

• Stalking

• Gangs

• Domestic abuse

This course was developed by Dr Kathryn Hughes. Dr Hughes has many years of experience in criminal psychology and offender profiling. The content has been professionally sourced and is of the highest possible standard.