NCJ Number
111725
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 61 Issue: 2 Dated: (April-June 1988) Pages: 175-182
Date Published
1988
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The childhood of 12 assassins is reviewed to identify common factors that may have contributed to their personality development and the commission of the offense.
Abstract
These include the assassins of the Archduke Ferdinand, Leon Trotsky, Abraham Lincoln, James Garfield, William McKinley, John Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, Mahatma Ghandi, and others. Of 12 factors examined, 7 were common among these assassins. Most had poor rapport with their parents, exhibited personality disturbance, had average intelligence, and showed a persistent resentment of authority. Additionally, most had erratic work records, were greatly discontented with conditions in their countries, and experienced a relief of tension after the killing. In recruiting potential assassins, governments use personality and intelligence tests extensively. Highly prized qualities of potential assassisns include high intelligence, ability to plan constructively, callousness, absolute loyalty to the employer, and ability to establish rapport with others. 8 references.