Criminal Justice Professor: Use Caution When Considering Societal Impact of Serial Murderers
November 20, 2014
Contact: University Relations
Phone: 410.837.5739
Speaking on HuffPost Live, University of Baltimore Criminal Justice Professor Jeffrey Ian Ross says it's important for the public to be skeptical when the media make news about serial killers—for example, this week's coverage of Charles Manson's plans to get married.
"You have to be careful" about the various perspectives throughout society when discussing beliefs about serial murderers, such as the widespread but scientifically dubious "serial killer groupie" label.
While it is possible that violent people may hold some power over others, Ross says, the phenomeon has not been thoroughly studied and is, at best, anecdotal.
"Perhaps we need to shift the lens ... so that we can look at the kinds of relationships people do build with incarcerated men and women," Ross said.
Watch the HuffPost Live interview.
Learn more about Prof. Ross and UB's College of Public Afairs.