Serial Killing Myths Versus Reality: A Content Analysis Of Serial Killer Flicks Made Between 1980 and 2001

Public perceptions about serial homicide are more mythical than fact. Myths about serial homicide are perpetuated through several sources, especially the entertainment media which is a dominant and influential mythmaker. The number of films depicting serial killers and serial killing themes has increased dramatically in recent years. However, the reality of these films is debatable. This research examines the reality, or lack thereof, of the most recent films involving a serial killing theme. Hickey provides a wealth of statistical information on a number of serial killers and serial killings. A content analysis of the fifty top grossing serial killer movies made between 1980 and 2001 was conducted using variables from Hickey research. Research shows similarities and differences between variables, however, results concludes the entertainment media does not accurately portray serial homicide.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of North Texas

Year dc:date

2002

Author dc:creator

• McCready, Sarah Scott

Contributors dc:contributor

• Caeti, Tory J.
• Liederbach, John
• Loper, D. Kall

• Serial murderers in motion pictures -- United States.
• Serial murderers -- United States.
• Serial murders -- United States.
• serial homicide
• myth
• thesis
• flicks
• criminal justice

Statement dc:rights

• Public
• Copyright
• McCready, Sarah Scott
• Copyright is held by the author, unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved.

Language dc:language

English

Identifier

oclc: 50761763
https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc3228/
ark: ark:/67531/metadc3228

OAI identifier oai:identifier

info:ark/67531/metadc3228