Lovely Bones Research Paper

1328 Words6 Pages

According to Study.com, there are more than 2,000 active serial killers in the United States today. Statistically speaking, 40 percent of all murders go unsolved. In Alice Sebold's novel, Lovely Bones, a big part of the plot is about serial killers and their psychology. The book begins with the rape and murder of Susie Salmon by Mr. Harvey, a serial killer. Throughout the book, the reader follows Susie's point of view as she watches her family, friends, and Mr. Harvey from heaven. However, as Susie watches, Mr. Harvey discovers the complexity of his mind and why he became a rapist and a killer. Furthermore, the book entices the reader to think of serial killers and why they kill, but the novel categorizes Mr. Harvey under the general category. …show more content…

The biggest difference between the two is that psychopaths don’t feel remorse, which can help an investigator categorize a killer and figure out a killer's psychological problems. Additionally, it is important to note that psychopaths may not be violent, just mentally ill, but people often blur those lines. Being able to identify if a serial killer is a psychopath or not, is very important to categorize the killer and see what type of help they need. It also gives researchers more information about serial killers. From a young age, some serial killers start to show harbingers that they could become killers in the future because of problems with their behavior, sexuality, and social skills. A study was carried out with youths who committed multiple homicides. Researchers found that most youths who committed homicides had trouble with their peers and their personality. Because they are troubled socially and mentally, their behaviors can lead to their murdering tendencies. Another hint that can give away a troubled homicidal youth is how they react to certain situations; however, it's important to know that the majority of