Serial killer John Wayne Gacey was one of the most notorious criminals of the 20th century. He was responsible for the murder of 33 young men and boys. What hints of this violent behavior existed in his early life? What experiences may have contributed to the man he ultimately became? In this essay, we will explore Gacey's childhood years to uncover possible factors of influence. We will then look at the details of his adult life to determine whether he was ever diagnosed with a mental disorder, and if so, if he was ever treated.
John Wayne Gacy Jr. had a troubled childhood, which some believe partially contributed to his later actions (Clemens, 2003). He was born in 1942, to an emotionally distant father who was strongly critical of his son's behavior and appearance. Gacy's mother was largely ineffectual, relying on her son for companionship and approval (Gallagher and Ohlin, 2009). Gacy was a victim of physical and mental abuse, with his father reportedly beating him for misbehavior such as wetting the bed (Cadwallader, 2001). His mother, who suffered from depression and paranoia, was
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He had two siblings and was the only son of John Stanley Gacey and Marion Elaine Robinson. His childhood was a difficult one; Gacey had a fragile relationship with his father, and a chaotic environment surrounded him due to his parents' tumultuous marriage (Thompson). Gacey dropped out of school after seventh grade, so he never finished high school (Thompson). Afterward, he held a few jobs, such as a construction worker, and he was married twice, both ending in divorce (Thompson). In 1980, Gacey was diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder by the court while standing trial for his murders and was sentenced to death (Thompson). Although he was never formally treated, Gacey was in and out of various prisons throughout his lifetime. In 1994, he was ultimately executed for the 33 murders he had