Seriaalmõrvar

Seriaalmõrvar is the Estonian term for "serial killer." A serial killer is defined as an individual who commits a series of murders, often with a cooling-off period between each murder. These killings are typically driven by psychological gratification rather than by external factors such as financial gain or political objectives. The motive is often deeply rooted in the killer's psyche, involving fantasies, power, or sexual urges.

The phenomenon of serial murder has been documented across various cultures and historical periods. While the exact number of serial killers is difficult to ascertain, law enforcement agencies worldwide dedicate significant resources to investigating and apprehending them. Profiling, a technique used by law enforcement to identify probable characteristics of an unknown offender, is often employed in serial murder investigations. This involves analyzing crime scene evidence, victimology, and behavioral patterns to create a psychological portrait of the perpetrator.

The study of serial killers falls under the purview of criminology and forensic psychology. Researchers attempt to understand the complex factors that contribute to serial offending, including biological, psychological, and sociological influences. While there is no single cause, common themes in the backgrounds of serial killers often include childhood trauma, abuse, and early signs of antisocial behavior. The media often sensationalizes serial killer cases, which can sometimes lead to public fear and misunderstanding of the phenomenon.