Citation

Murray JL. Deviant Behav. 2017; 38(10): 1172-1185.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/01639625.2016.1246015

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Through the use of ethnographic content analysis this article examines four common fantasy themes: the role of fantasy in creating a temporary refuge and/or a permanent escape; revenge, and the methodical targeting of specific victims or murder-by-proxy; sadistic, sexual, and misogynistic payback; attention-seeking/reaction seeking--the drive for infamy in eight contemporary and notorious mass killers. Each type of fantasy script is distinct and is shaped in the context of the particular offender's: destabilizing life events, real or perceived losses, and interpretation of the four common fantasy themes. The killer derives immense pleasure and catharsis from his fantasy script and themes.

Language: en