Denying the Darkness: Exploring the Discourses of Neutralization of Bundy, Gacy, and Dahmer
2019; Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute; Volume: 9; Issue: 2 Linguagem: Inglês
10.3390/soc9020046
ISSN2075-4698
Autores Tópico(s)Terrorism, Counterterrorism, and Political Violence
ResumoThis 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.
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