Serial killers have always been a fascinating subject for many people, including students. Investigating their motives, psychology, and criminal behavior can provide valuable insights into the human mind. This article will discuss the importance of teaching students about serial killers in Boston and provide an approach for educators to implement this subject into their curriculum.
Importance of Teaching Students About Serial Killers
Understanding the psychology and motives behind serial killings can help students develop a more profound comprehension of society and human behavior. By studying the actions of these individuals and their impacts on communities, students can learn how different factors—such as social, economic, psychological, and biological—affect criminal behavior. Furthermore, studying about serial killers also touches upon topics like victimology, forensics, and criminal investigation. These additional subjects can significantly benefit students who wish to pursue careers in criminology or other related fields.
The Boston Strangler: A Prominent Serial Killer Case
The case of Albert DeSalvo, more commonly known as The Boston Strangler, presents an excellent opportunity to teach students about the complex nature of serial killers. Responsible for the deaths of at least 13 women between 1962 and 1964, DeSalvo confessed to the crimes before his arrest in 1965.
DeSalvo’s background provides insight into different theories regarding what leads someone to become a serial killer. Born into an abusive household, DeSalvo had a difficult childhood marked by incidents of violence carried out by his father. As he grew up, his criminal behavior escalated from petty theft to more serious offenses. This early exposure to violence could be examined as a potential contributing factor in his later crimes.
Incorporating the Study of Serial Killers in Education
While it is essential to approach such a sensitive topic with care and consideration for both academic purposes and student wellbeing, teaching about serial killers can be done in various ways. The following are some methods to include this subject effectively in an educational setting:
Classroom Discussions: Encourage open and respectful dialogues among students about the case, including their thoughts and reactions. This method allows educators to facilitate conversations and introduce new perspectives into the discussion.
Analyzing Evidence: Delving into crime scene photos, news articles, and police reports can help students understand the forensic aspect of criminal investigations. It showcases the importance of evidence gathering and illustrates the intricacies of solving such cases.
Case Studies: Multiple case studies can be introduced to display a broader range of motives, methodologies, and psychological profiles of serial killers. Comparing different cases aids in understanding the variations in thought patterns and behaviors among these individuals.
Documentaries and Films: Using documentaries, biographies, or films based on real-life events can be a powerful way to engage students visually and emotionally with the subject matter while presenting factual information.
Guest Speakers: Inviting experts in criminology, psychology, or forensic science can enrich student understanding by offering first-hand accounts from professionals involved in serial killer cases.
