Denying the Darkness: Exploring the Discourses of Neutralization of Bundy, Gacy, and Dahmer

Abstract

This exploratory study analyzed how three serial killers (i.e., Bundy, Gacy, and Dahmer) potentially rationalized and justified their murders by applying techniques of neutralization. This paper discusses how the use of these neutralizations also functions as a form of stigma management assisting in the maintenance of a positive presentation of self, thus mitigating responsibility for their crimes. This study conducted a content analysis of data comprised from interviews and case histories of these three serial killers. Based on these analyses, the impression is conveyed that these killers used neutralizations to manage their identities (i.e., present “normal” selves), mitigate responsibility for their actions, and minimize the stigma associated with being labeled a serial killer.

Serial Killers – Views on Why Sadipaths Kill, the Death Penalty, and Rehabilitation

“…Samuel Little is now believed to be the most prolific serial killer in American history. At this time, it has already been confirmed that he has killed over 50 women, and it is generally believed that he may have killed closer to 100 during his 35-year reign of terror (Holcombe, 2019;Palazzolo, 2019). Little has become the quintessential example of a sadipathic killer.…”

Sadipaths - A Look at the Public’s Familiarity With Some of the Most Nefarious Serial Killers

“…Serial murder refers to the killing of at least three or more people across a period of time (Bartels & Parsons, 2009). In the literature, it is commonly stated that there needs to be a "cooling off" period between killings to qualify as serial murder (James, 2019). For example, if a person committed three murders across a single afternoon, in different locations, this would be viewed as a single episode.…”