The link between modern society and crime has always been a topic of intrigue and debate amongst psychologists, sociologists, and criminologists. In the last few decades, changes in technology, culture, and societal structures have led to novel discussions about their effects on violent crime and the patterns of serial offenders. Here, we delve into how contemporary society may be impacting the rise or evolution of violent crime and the profiles of modern-day serial killers.
1. The Internet Age and Anonymity
With the advent of the internet, there’s been a significant increase in interconnectedness. While the internet has made global communication more accessible, it has also created an environment where anonymity and cyber interactions can foster dark desires1. Some researchers argue that online platforms might enable potential serial killers to find communities that reinforce their heinous interests, providing both validation and techniques.
2. Media and the “Celebrity” Killer
The role of media in the portrayal of serial killers has evolved. In the past, killers like Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer became household names. The contemporary media landscape, with its 24-hour news cycles and sensationalism, can inadvertently provide notoriety, which may act as a motivation for some criminals2.
3. Rapid Urbanisation and Anonymity
Sociologists point to the rapid urbanisation of modern society as a potential enabler. In densely populated cities, individuals can often feel isolated, despite being surrounded by thousands of people. Such environments might allow serial offenders to operate with a degree of anonymity3.
4. Economic Disparities and Crime
Societal inequalities, often heightened in rapidly developing economies, can exacerbate crime rates. Desperation, coupled with limited access to resources, might push individuals towards criminal behaviours, although it’s a leap to suggest it directly influences serial killings4.
5. Advances in Forensics and the “Evolution” of the Serial Killer
Modern criminologists often discuss how advances in forensic science have led to an “evolution” in the methods of serial killers. Aware of the latest techniques used by law enforcement, today’s serial killers may adapt, becoming more meticulous and harder to catch5.
6. Mental Health and Society
Modern society, moving quickly with it’s constant connectivity, has been linked with increased rates of mental health disorders. While it’s crucial not to stigmatise mental health issues, some argue that societal pressures can exacerbate existing pathologies, potentially contributing to violent behaviours6.
Self Drive Psychology Summary
Understanding the societal influences on violent crime and serial killings requires a multi-disciplinary approach. While it’s challenging to draw definitive conclusions, the interplay of modern societal structures, media, and technology has undoubtedly shifted the landscape of crime. As society continues to evolve, so too will the challenges in understanding and mitigating violent behaviours.
References
1 Holt, T. J., Bossler, A. M., & Seigfried-Spellar, K. C. (2015). Cybercrime and Digital Forensics: An Introduction. Routledge.
2 Schmid, D. (2015). Natural Born Celebrities: Serial Killers in American Culture. University of Chicago Press.
3 Innes, M. (2005). Why “soft” policing is hard: on the curious development of reassurance policing, how it became neighbourhood policing and what this signifies about the politics of police reform. Journal of Community & Applied Social Psychology, 15(3), 156-169.
4 Wilkinson, R., & Pickett, K. (2010). The spirit level: Why more equal societies almost always do better. Allen Lane.
5 Goodwill, A. M., & Alison, L. J. (2007). When is profiling possible? Offense planning and aggression as moderators in predicting offender age from victim age in UK homicide. Behavioral Sciences & the Law, 25(4), 601-614.
6 Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2018). Associations between screen time and lower psychological well-being among children and adolescents: Evidence from a population-based study. Preventive Medicine Reports, 12, 271-283.
