The feminization of serial killing: A gender identity study of male and female serialists using covert methods of murder

This research explores the gender identities of males and females convicted of serial killing in the United States, who used covert methods of murder. The existing literature concerning male and female serialists indicates that the greatest differences are their methods of murder and the levels of violence associated with the killings. Gender is proposed as the explanation. Men use overt methods of murder (shooting, stabbing, bludgeoning) and women choose covert (poisoning, suffocation, lethal injection). A review of past and present serial murderers indicates that males and a female using overt methods of murder were in traditionally masculine occupations. But males and females using covert murder methods were in traditionally feminine roles and occupations. To date this observation has not been studied. Thus, a theoretical sample of three females and five males convicted of killing in a serial manner, and using covert methods, was interviewed to generate a conceptual understanding about the gender identities of these individuals. This group of male and female serialists is atypical. First, it is unusual for women to commit serial murder. Second, gender is believed to determine the methods used in killing. And third, "real" men do not engage in occupations perceived as "women's" work. The question guiding the research is: Does the gender identity of male and female serialists explain their use of covert methods of murder? In-depth face-to-face interviews with the eight subjects were the primary source of data collection. Additional document analysis included trial transcripts, and journal and media articles. The study indicated that gender identity influenced the male and female serialists in their selection of female-dominated occupations. While engaged in these occupations, the men practiced masculinity and the women practiced femininity. Since the victim selection and murderous behavior occurred while working in these caregiver roles, the use of covert methods was more consistent with the feminine roles and occupations rather than their gendered behaviors. A conceptual model was constructed to reflect these findings.