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Narcissistic Traits in Sexually Motivated Serial Killers
Ioannidi, Evangelia; Gauglitz, Iris K.; Sherretts, Nicole; u. a. (2026): Narcissistic Traits in Sexually Motivated Serial Killers, in: Bamberg: Otto-Friedrich-Universität, S. 51–65.
Author:
By:
... ; Schuetz, Astrid
Publisher Information:
Year of publication:
2026
Pages:
Source/Other editions:
Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology, Boston, Mass.: Springer, 2026, Jg. 41, Nr. 1, S. 51–65, ISSN: 1936-6469
Year of first publication:
2026
Language:
English
Abstract:
Understanding the role of narcissism in sexually motivated serial killers is crucial for uncovering the psychological mechanisms behind their actions and aiding effective profiling, prevention strategies, and interventions. This study investigated whether dimensions of trait narcissism are present in sexually motivated serial killers and how these dimensions co-occur. Based on the Narcissistic Admiration and Rivalry Concept (NARC) and the Vulnerable Isolation and Enmity Concept (VIEC), we distinguished between different dimensions of grandiose (grandiose admiration and rivalry) and vulnerable (vulnerable isolation and enmity) narcissism. Confessions and interrogation interviews from 45 male serial killers, either publicly available or obtained upon request, were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Findings showed a significant presence of grandiose and vulnerable narcissism, with vulnerable enmity (84%) and grandiose admiration (76%) being most prevalent. The results can contribute to a framework for targeted prevention strategies and lay the groundwork for future research on narcissism’s intersection with psychopathy, impulsivity, and other personality traits in serial homicide.
Keywords: ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;
Narcissism
Serial killers
Criminal profiling
Sexually motivated homicide
Qualitative
Enmity
Vulnerable narcissism
Grandiose narcissism
NARC
Peer Reviewed:
Yes:
International Distribution:
Yes:
Type:
Article
Activation date:
June 19, 2026
Project(s):
Permalink
https://fis.uni-bamberg.de/handle/uniba/115653