A serial killer is defined as an individual who murders two or more victims over an extended period of time, ranging from days to years, with the crimes often being sexually motivated. Although there is a growing popular emphasis on the phenomenon, there is a paucity of rigorous research in the area. The present article reviews existing motivational theories of serial murder and proposes additional explications from a range of disciplines. Suggestions for future research are presented and integrational approaches are encouraged.
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