Abstract

Serial killing is one of the most extreme and rare forms of deviant behaviour, but much of the existing research remains focused on psychological and criminological explanations. This critical literature review examines serial murder through a sociological lens, identifying key risk factors that contribute to the development and actions of serial killers. By emphasizing broader social, environmental, and structural influences, this essay challenges the notion that serial murder is solely an individual pathology. It explores how factors such as childhood abuse, dysfunctional family dynamics, socio-economic marginalization, media influence, and violent subcultures interact to shape serial killers’ trajectories. The analysis draws on both positivist and social constructionist perspectives. Findings indicate that childhood trauma, particularly abuse, is a recurring risk factor among serial killers, though not a universal one. Additionally, media portrayals can contribute to the construction of serial killers as cultural figures, influencing both public perception and offenders’ self-identities. Contrary to popular belief, socio-economic status alone does not appear to be a primary determinant of serial murder. By synthesizing various sociological perspectives, this review highlights the intersection of social forces that contribute to serial killing, positioning it as a product of broader structural and cultural dynamics within society rather than an isolated phenomenon.