Best Criminal Psychology Books

This insightful book by legendary FBI profiler John Douglas and Mark Olshaker delves into the root of all crime – the motive. Using his renowned insights, Douglas uncovers the reasons behind violent sociopathic behavior, from seemingly ordinary people who go on rampages to famous killers like Lee Harvey Oswald and Theodore Kaczynski. By analyzing the progressive escalation of their behavior, Douglas helps readers anticipate potential violent behavior before it's too late.

Delve into the minds of some of the most notorious serial killers and assassins of our time with this captivating true crime book. Written by a retired Special Agent who interviewed the likes of Charles Manson, Richard Speck, and John Wayne Gacy, this book offers a landmark study on the motives of these individuals. Learn how John Douglas's work in behavioral science and criminal profiling ushered in a new era of law enforcement.

Discover how punishment has evolved from torture to impacting the human soul in this thought-provoking work by a highly regarded philosopher. Explore how modern penitentiaries haven't truly abolished torture, but merely shifted its focus.

Uncover the chilling world of psychopaths in this book based on 25 years of scientific research by Dr. Robert D. Hare. Delve into the minds of society's most manipulative and remorseless predators, including serial killers like Ted Bundy and John Wayne Gacy. Learn how to recognize psychopaths - who may appear completely normal to unsuspecting targets - and protect yourself from their dangerous behaviors. Discover the difference between right and wrong in the eyes of a psychopath and gain tangible insights into this devastating condition.

This book delves into the dark and chilling history of serial killers, exploring America's most notorious cases like Ted Bundy and John Wayne Gacy, as well as lesser-known but equally disturbing killers. The author, Peter Vronsky, offers insights into the psychological, investigative, and cultural aspects of serial murder, as well as practical tips on how to recognize and survive an encounter with a serial killer. With detailed research, interviews with killers, and up-to-date information on recent cases, this book is sure to captivate those intrigued by this fascinating true crime phenomenon.

Discover the techniques used by FBI veteran and ex-Army CID colonel Robert Ressler to track down and capture some of America's most brutal serial killers. Learn how Ressler created psychological profiles of these dangerous criminals using evidence from crime scenes and personal accounts from convicted murderers. Join him on a terrifying journey to understand the mind of a killer and how they choose their victims. Uncover the secrets behind some of history's most notorious murderers and how they were brought to justice.

Explore the twisted minds of some of the world's most dangerous sexual criminals with Dark Dreams. FBI profiler Roy Hazelwood reveals the innovative and remarkably effective investigative techniques he helped pioneer that allow law enforcement to construct psychological profiles of the offenders who commit these heinous crimes. Hazelwood takes readers into his world, solving cases such as the disappearance of a convenience store worker, a teenager's bizarre ritualistic murder, and a married couple who kidnapped and kept a hitchhiker as a sex slave for seven years. A gruesome but fascinating read that proves even the most cunning criminals can be brought to justice.

Explore the fascinating world of forensic psychology with this research-based and practical text. Written by experts in the field, this book teaches you how to apply psychological knowledge to the civil and criminal justice systems. With real-life examples and discussions of emerging specializations like investigative psychology, you'll gain a multicultural perspective critical to successful practice in this field. Updated with current statistics, research, and case law, this fifth edition explores issues like mental health courts, online predators, and the effects of violent media.

Discover the secrets to identifying and protecting yourself from the four most common "dangerous personalities" with Dangerous Personalities. Former FBI profiler, Joe Navarro, takes readers on a journey through the Narcissist, the Predator, the Paranoid, and the Unstable Personality, providing essential tips and tricks for assessing potential threats and healing from trauma. Don't miss out on this national bestseller with a new foreword in the paperback edition.