17 Aug In your own words, describe the difference between serial killers and mass murder events.

PART 1- For the first part of this discussion, I would like for you to answer the following two questions:

• • (5 points) In your own words, describe the difference between serial killers and mass murder events. What types of characteristics separate these two types of offenders?
  • (10 points) This week, we have discussed a number of myths surrounding serial killers and mass murder offenders. We have also acknowledged how media representations of these criminal events greatly distort the real prevalence of these types of deadly incidents and what the average offender looks like. After reading the course materials this week, what facts about serial killers or mass murder offenders has been the most surprising and/or informative to you? Did any of the information provided this week improve your sociological understanding of why these killings occur? Please be sure to include specific facts from the lecture notes in your response.

PART 2- For the second part of this discussion, I would like for you to answer one of the following questions below. In your response, please be sure to include course materials and/or outside sources to strengthen your argument. This question is worth 25 points, so be sure to provide a more thorough response.

• • Examine the role of the media and the documentation of multiple murder events by first, researching Elliot Rodger’s shooting spree on May 23rd, 2010 in Isla Vista, California. Then, please read the CBC News Article “Should the media Stop Naming Rampage Killers?“. Richard Martinez, the father of one of the victims of the California shooting, said “the media needs to take some responsibility, and should not publish the gunman’s name, image or any related videos because it gives the killer the attention he craves.” Do you agree with Richard Martinez? Why or why not?
    • • If you agree, how much responsibility should the media take and what may penalties look like?
      • If you disagree, are there any other institutions (if any) to blame for creating a culture that popularizes serial killers and mass murder offenders?
  • Watch the Serial Killer Documentary: Paul Durousseau (The Jacksonville Strangler) (Links to an external site.) and research any additional information on Durousseau to understand the offenders life before his serial killing began, victim characteristics, and factors that led to his arrest. Based on your research, answer the following questions in your own words:
    • • Provide a brief description of where Durousseau committed his crimes, his victims, and factors that led to his arrest.
      • Accordingly to Holmes & Holmes (1998) typology, how would you describe Paul Durousseau? Does he fall under organized or disorganized serial killers? Would you describe him as ACT-FOCUSED or PROCESS-FOCUSED?
      • Were these any missed opportunities that could have prevented any victims of Durousseau? These missed opportunities could have been due to inaction from the criminal justice system, his employer, or improper handling of his case. Be sure to provide context in your response, using case details to support your argument.

PART 3- For the final part of this discussion, I would like you to construct two discussion questions for your peers (5 points). The only requirement is that your questions are to be related to the course content in some way.