The Psychology of Serial Killers
hosted by Dr. Rachel Toles
The Psychology of Serial Killers is a gripping masterclass that dives deep into one of the most disturbing and fascinating subjects of our time. Renowned clinical psychologist and criminal expert Dr. Rachel Toles explores the terrifying minds of the world’s most infamous serial killers, revealing how many lived undetected among their neighbors for years before being apprehended.
In this intense and thought-provoking presentation, Dr. Toles confronts the questions we’re both afraid and compelled to ask: Who are these notorious killers? How does a seemingly ordinary person become a mass murderer? Why are we so fascinated by them? Why are most serial killers white males? And why do some women fall in love with serial killers?
Through expert analysis and real-world case studies, Dr. Toles leads audiences on a chilling journey into the psychology of these dark individuals, uncovering the patterns, myths, and unsettling truths behind their crimes.
About The Psychology of Serial Killers
Learn about serial killers you’ve never heard for before in this acclaimed, sell-out show.
‘The Psychology of Serial Killers’ will give even the most dedicated true crime fan new insights into the phenomenon of serial homicide.
During this talk, you will learn:
Why do some people become serial killers?
Is animal cruelty a red flag for later violence? We will look at the statistics and case studies to explore the answer to this question.
How do we categorise serial killers? We will look at different methods, some which are very popular, and others which (for the most part) have stood up to empirical exploration. By the end of this talk, you will be able to identify the difference between categories of serial killer, the type of crimes each typically engage with and the type of crime scene they are likely to leave behind.
Identifying serial killer myths: what misrepresentations of serial killers do you mistakenly believe? How responsible is the media or Hollywood for such beliefs? What are the real trends which can be observed?
Why is it that can you only name white serial killers? How does press coverage affect what crimes we hear about? What aspects of a crime make it...
About Dr. Rachel Toles
Dr. Rachel Toles is a clinical and forensic psychologist specializing in extreme violence, serial homicide, and threat pathways. Her work focuses on the assessment and interpretation of high-risk behavior, including the warning patterns that can surface long before violence becomes visible. She conducts violence risk assessments, provides expert testimony, and consults on high-profile criminal cases, bringing clinical precision to questions of intent, escalation, and behavioral change over time.
Dr. Toles consults across film and television, advising on offender psychology, behavioral realism, threat escalation, and character development. Her work supports writers, producers, and networks in building accurate portrayals of criminal behavior, investigative decision-making, and the psychological dynamics that shape victims, perpetrators, and families. Her consulting credits include Dick Wolf Productions, HBO Max, Investigation Discovery, MGM+, Peacock, MGM+, Apple TV, NBCUniversal, ABC News Nightline (Impact x Hulu), Oxygen, and Sony Pictures Television.
As a speaker, Dr. Toles presents nationally and internationally on the psychology of homicide, pathways to violence, and the warning behaviors that often appear years before an act becomes public. She’s known for translating complex behavioral science into clear, usable frameworks for professionals and general audiences alike, with an emphasis on prevention,...
