The portrait of a murderer

Abstract

A portrait is presented of an impulsive, violent and paranoid young murderer. A review of the psychiatric literature for indicators which address themselves to predicting murderous behavior yields a broad spectrum of theories and observations. The portrait presented includes a composite of many of the indicators which the various authors have described. The patient presented is felt to represent a discernable stereotype, and the predisposing factors which are viewed as contributiing to his murderous behavior are offered and given priorities.