By definition, a serial killer is "an individual who murders more than three victims, one at a time during a relatively short interval", but is it possible to define the reasons and motivations behind these murders? attacks? One of the most intriguing aspects of crime over the years has been that of serial killers. What motivates a serial killer? There is no single, simple answer as to what motivates individuals to commit murder. “Unraveling the story of a serial killer is like aligning a Rubik’s cube.” There is one big distinction that separates serial killers from other murderers, and that is their motivations for killing. Homicides are usually committed due to moments of rage and anger, or conflicts related to family problems, financial difficulties, gang violence, and conflicts between lovers and friends. "A psychokiller, I must point out, is not an ordinary murderer. A murderer has a vendetta, a very specific personal affair against his victim." In contrast, the victims of serial killers are most often strangers whom we have never met before the murder. Serial killers are driven by instinct and the desire to kill. Since the beginning of the 1980s, law enforcement agencies have become aware of the emergence of this alarming new phenomenon that is the serial killer. Since the 1960s, "multiple murders" have been on the rise, with more and more cases of what may initially appear to be "meritless" killings. Beverly Allitt – known as the "Angel of Death", a nurse who killed four babies under her care. George Chapman poisoned and killed three women. John Childs, convicted of 6 murders. Ian Brady and Myra Hindley – “Moor Muderers”, murdered five children. Anthony Hardy suspected four murders. D...... middle of paper......for them to act out their violent fantasies. However, as we look at child abuse as a possible explanation for the serial killer's behavior, we must consider that many children suffered horrible suffering. abused by close family members or caregivers, but did not become mass murderers. We therefore cannot assume that childhood maltreatment is a direct link to future criminal behavior. Additionally, although many girls experience victimization as children, very few grow up to behave in such a violent and sadistic manner, turning to extremely violent behavior towards individuals. The vast majority of serial killers are men rather than women, which may suggest that other factors are also important and need to be considered. Childhood abuse may not be the only excuse for serial killers, but it is an undeniable factor in many serial killer environments..