Exploring The Chilling Concept Of The Serial Killer Gene

Murder is one of the most chilling acts that people dread. Throughout history, many serial killers have existed, making people question their state of mind and wonder whether they are naturally born serial killers. A possible explanation for the homicidal behaviour has been associated with the serial killer gene. Is the gene real or fictional?

The fascination with serial killers has permeated popular culture, often leaving people wondering about the factors that contribute to such horrific behaviour. The concept of a "serial killer gene" has emerged, leading to intense discussions and debates. Many ask if certain individuals are predestined to commit heinous acts or if environmental influences play a significant role in shaping violent tendencies.

As we dive deeper into this topic, we will explore various aspects related to the serial killer gene. This includes its scientific basis, the genes involved, and how genetics may influence behaviour. Understanding these elements could provide valuable insights into the nature of violence and the complexities of human behaviour.

What is a serial killer gene?

The phrase serial killer gene sparked an online debate after Alice Cooper, in the crime-drama TV series Riverdale, revealed to her daughter Betty that she had the gene. This meant that Betty, as her daughter, would also be a serial killer.

The serial killer gene is the monoamine oxidase-A gene, sometimes called the warrior gene. Individuals, especially males, with low levels of the gene tend to be highly aggressive even when slightly provoked.

How do the serial killer genes MAO-A and CDH13 work? These enzymes break down neurotransmitters, including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Serotonin and dopamine are happy hormones, while norepinephrine is responsible for flight or fight response in case of danger. When there isn’t enough expression of MAO-A, the metabolism of neurotransmitters is hampered, leading to their accumulation.

Is there evidence of a serial killer gene?

Are the MAO-A and CDH13 genes real? Numerous studies and experiments have been done to determine whether the serial killer gene is real.

An experiment conducted on male subjects by Professor Rose McDermott at Brown University in 2009 suggested that subjects with low-activity MAO-A displayed high levels of aggression. This implies that the gene may influence aggression and violence.

In another study published in 2014 conducted on Finnish prisoners, prisoners with low-activity MAO-A and CDH13 were linked with violence. The serial killer gene test revealed that at least between 5% and 10% of violent criminals in the country were associated with the genes.

What are serial killer gene symptoms?

How can you tell if one is likely to become a serial killer? There are several warning signs of one becoming a serial killer, but the symptoms do not necessarily mean that they are destined to be murderers. Here are things or behaviours to look out for:

• Violence against animals - Even though animals, especially domestic ones, are people’s friends, a person showing serial killer signs would mistreat them.
• Uncontrollable aggression - They are easily provoked and overreact even to a minor issue. When their tempers flare, they can do anything harmful.
• Enjoying watching extreme violence - They are sadistic and take pleasure in watching other people suffer or go through intense pain.
• Antisocial behaviour - Although they can easily socialise and make friends, their behaviour is suspicious since they tend to violate others’ rights.
• Weird fantasies - While it is quite normal to fantasise, weird fantasies are not normal. Most serial killers have confessed to fantasising before going on a killing spree.

How many serial killers have the serial killer gene?

While there have been many serial killers, not all of them have been proven to have the serial killer gene. A few serial killers with the MAO-A gene have been identified, including Abdemalek Bayout and Bradley Waldroup.

In Abdemalek Bayout's case, an Italian court reduced his sentence by one year based on evidence that he had genetic mutations linked to aggressive behaviour. He was initially sentenced to nine years and three years in prison, but it was reduced by one year after an appeal considered his genetic makeup, which included MAO-A.

In Bradley Waldroup’s case, in which he killed his wife and her friend, it was thought that his drinking habit and anger issues led to the murders. However, it was later established that he was genetically predisposed to be a murderer because a DNA test revealed he had serial killer genes.

Do serial killers occur naturally, or are they nurtured?

For a long time, people have argued whether serial killers are made to be who they are or if they are born with homicidal behaviour as their genetic makeup. However, possibly the two factors influence the creation of a serial killer.

People with low-activity MAO-A are high-tempered, violent, and may commit crimes. Still, the assumption does not seal the fate of all low-activity MAO-A individuals as serial killers. Additionally, other studies have linked environmental factors to causing homicidal behaviours. Such factors include childhood abuse, poor living conditions, and estranged family relationships.

What are MAO-A and CDH13 genes?

They are enzymes found in the genetic makeup of humans. They are usually referred to as serial killer genes. Individuals with low MAO-A are likely to be serial killers due to their high temper and likelihood of violence.

Does everyone have the MAO-A gene?

Yes. However, people have different quantities of the enzyme. MAO-A breaks down neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, and if it’s inadequate, one tends to exhibit violent behaviours.

Who had the serial killer gene?

While there have been several serial killers, not all of them have been proven to have the genes. In the trials of Abdemalek Bayout and Bradley Waldroup, DNA tests revealed they were serial killers with the serial killer gene.

What are some signs of a serial killer?

A serial killer may exhibit multiple characteristics, including antisocial behaviours, extreme aggression, violence against animals, and weird fantasies.