Now in its fourth edition, "Criminal Profiling" is an established text centered on the deductive profiling method developed by the author. Deductive profiling is different from other forms of profiling in that it does not involve averaged, statistical profiles. Instead it focuses on criminal profiling as an investigative process, solving real crime through an honest understanding of the nature and behavior of criminals. It approaches each criminal incident as its own universe of behaviors and relationships. Throughout the text, the author illustrates the most crucial tenet that any good criminal profiler should adhere to: the enthusiastic desire to investigate and examine the facts. With 35% new content, this edition contains cases in each chapter, along with the latest advances in evidence-based profiling. Additional information has been added covering topics such as mass homicide, as well as the timely inclusion of a chapter on terrorist profiling and interviewing. "Criminal Profiling, Fourth Edition," is an ideal companion for students and professionals alike, including investigators, forensic scientists, criminologists, mental health professionals, and attorneys. Readers will use it as a comprehensive reference text, a handbook for evaluating physical evidence, a tool to bring new perspectives to cold cases, and as an aid in preparing for criminal trials. * Best-selling author Brent Turvey defines the deductive profiling method, which focuses on examining the nature and behavior of criminals in order to solve crimes * Contributing authors represent law enforcement, academic, mental health, and forensic science communities for a balanced perspective * Completely revised with 35% new material including updates on the latest advances in evidence-based profiling "New to this edition" * New cases in every chapter * New chapters in logic and reasoning * New chapter reviewing non-evidence based profiling methods * New chapter on mass homicide * New chapter on terrorist profiling and interviewing
Stars: 1 because I finished reading it 2 for being full of interesting topics 3 for being easy to read / understand 4 because the author managed to remain objective about each topic and 5 because the author's way of writing is simply admirable
Interesting, but it's definitely not light reading, this one is a textbook. A great resource for anyone writing about serial killers. It goes far more in-depth than I expected.
There is useful information in this book and I found things to learn. It was organized well. I wish the author engaged in less penis-jousting, as just trashing every other profiler or investigative agency began to get in the way. I think the author could have used the pages more productively in this regard. The appendix case example at the end of the book was great.
I thought this would be interesting. I thought this would be about criminal profiling. It is neither. Boring, dense as mud, and full of evolutionary self-refuting drivel.
It is clear from this text that Mr. Turvey is a proponent of individual case study, rather than statistical analysis. I can understand and agree with that. In the text, however, he spends an inordinate amount of time stressing the limits of criminal profiling while not providing much in the ways of actually developing a profile. Basic terms are discussed, but clear strategies and "how to"s are missing. Perhaps, as a primer for further study, this text is a starting point. I had hoped for more procedural information. Not that his information was useless-quite the contrary. As a foundation, it stresses how to ensure fair, accurate, and usable profiles by avoiding pitfalls. But as a guide for actual psychological analysis, this is not the text.
Seems all right. Kind of boring. Very, very technical. The author's opinion on pioneering individuals in the field of criminal profiling is made clear to the reader. I never like it when an author references himself or his opinions and theories in a text - just give me the facts, please - and I think that's a big part of the reason why I don't really care for this. Can't imagine I'll finish it. Cool pictures, though.
A very good survey of criminal profiling theory and methods. Part of the quality of the book comes from the breadth and depth of the contributors that Turvey brings in, but another reason for the book's quality stems from Turvey's personal interest in the subject, the reason for which he details in the introduction. This is a great book for anyone looking for a thorough overview of the subject, as well as an in-depth examination for professions.
FS: "The process of inferring the personality characteristics of individuals responsible for committing criminal acts has commonly been referred to as criminal profiling."
LS: "These guidelines do not represent a radical departure from those of other well established professional forensic organizations, such as the American Board of Criminalists and the California Association of Criminalists."
So confusing!!!! Will update when I finish. Right now however I think the author is horrible and contradictory. I am reading this for a class and I am getting irritated with this...well this is what it is but I disagree and this is the fault of blah blah blah...
My career has been in Criminal Justice and learned of this book. Purchased this book for reference and education - purchased it used for my library. Doubt I would have for new copy.