Expressions of Sexual Deviance in Black Serial Killers
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Walden University ScholarWorks Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection 2020 Expressions of Sexual Deviance in Black Serial Killers Lucia J. Weatherall Walden University Follow this and additional works at: https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations Part of the Psychology Commons This Dissertation is brought to you for free and open access by the Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies Collection at ScholarWorks. It has been accepted for inclusion in Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies by an authorized administrator of ScholarWorks. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Walden University College of Social and Behavioral Sciences This is to certify that the doctoral dissertation by Lucia J. Weatherall has been found to be complete and satisfactory in all respects, and that any and all revisions required by the review committee have been made. Review Committee Dr. Susan Marcus, Committee Chairperson, Psychology Faculty Dr. Jana Price-Sharps, Committee Member, Psychology Faculty Dr. Christopher Bass, University Reviewer, Psychology Faculty Chief Academic Officer and Provost Sue Subocz, Ph.D. Walden University 2020 Abstract Expressions of Sexual Deviance in Black Serial Killers by Lucia J. Weatherall MPhil, Walden University, 2019 MSP, University of Phoenix, 2014 BS, University of Phoenix, 2012 Dissertation Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Psychology Walden University August 2020 Abstract The number of Black serial killers (BSKs) has increased, but empirical studies have not focused on this unique population, including their expressions of sexual deviance. The purpose of this case study was to understand the common socialization experiences and the expressions of sexual deviance in BSKs. Two conceptual frameworks were used to identify the concepts to explore: Bandura’s social learning theory of aggression and Agnew’s general strain theory. Data collected came from archival court and police records in Texas. A content-analysis approach was used to analyze the archival data, organized by criminal background, sexual deviance, familial data, and social development. The results identified rape and sadism as the primary expressions of sexual deviance in BSKs. The level of aggression and trauma experienced during childhood was consistent across all cases. The results, while limited by the lack of interviews with family and law enforcement, indicated that BSKs present a social problem and have an adaptive skill not hindered by mental impairments or limited education. The results suggested empirical research needs to explore aggression and strain on African American children, the possible connection to the lack of paternal involvement, and expressions of sexual deviance in BSKs. Future research on BSKs can help create an accurate profile to assist law enforcement agencies identify predators. Expressions of Sexual Deviance in Black Serial Killers by Lucia J. Weatherall MPhil, Walden University, 2019 MSP, University of Phoenix, 2014 BS, University of Phoenix, 2012 Dissertation Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Psychology Walden University August 2020 Dedication I dedicate this study, and doctorate, to my phenomenal husband Lloyd, and our three exceptional children, Zaria Jolie Angel, Micah Elijah, and Eliana Amor. You have remained my strongest and most loyal supporters; My Tribe. You (individually and as a Whole) had to sacrifice time with me, your wife and your mom. Nights and weekends that I should have been cooking dinner, helping with homework, having family time, and numerous other priceless moments were replaced with the back of my head buried in books or typing another paper. From the bottom of my heart and the depths of my being; I thank you for always supporting me, loving me, cheering for me, and motivating me. I love you with all that I am. You are my why, my reason, my purpose, my everything; I am the most blessed woman in this world to have each of you by my side during this journey called Life. A huge thanks to my doctoral partner-in-crime, my amazing big sister, Jessica Y. Goings. The experience of earning this doctorate with you remains humbling and priceless. In the times I felt like I would Surrender to the process, you kept me motivated and accountable. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to share this experience with you. We have accomplished something most siblings will never share, a PhD! Dr. J and Dr. Lu; we did it. I love you for the beauty and simplicity of your spirit and soul. You are Golden! I love you for loving and accepting me. In addition to your love, the words, kindness, empathy, and support you continue to demonstrate have made this an amazing journey. For that, and many other reasons, I will always Cherish and Treasure you. It has been an Honor. Simper. Acknowledgments The saying, “It takes a village,” extends farther than my childhood experiences and development. My family (Village) does not end with the people who share a genetic link; they include people who demonstrate unconditional loyalty, dedication, and support that goes beyond individual egos. My Village (My Tribe) has grown, changed, evolved, and strengthen during this process. I must acknowledge the family, friends, and faculty who will always have a place in my heart. First, and foremost, a personal thank you to my parents, George and Chris Johnson. I love you both. A shout out to my fellow scholar, future Dr., and Jessica’s other half, Tony. Thank you for being the amazing big brother I’d always prayed to have. Thank you for the phenomenal husband you are to my sister, and for remaining the true definition of an amazing father. Even though you cheer on the Eagles, I love you man! To my plethora of tias/aunts, tios/uncles, nieces, nephews, and primos/cousins (Johnson, Ornelas, Weatherall, Davis, and extended families) for being a constant source of support and motivation. The struggle has been real, and (I hope) a demonstration of what dedication and commitment can accomplish. To my sisters and brothers in love, my besties, my road dawgs, my homies, and my #TribeSisters; your encouragements, love, and support have helped in ways you will never understand. Your presence in my life has been a God sent blessing. I shout out, “Thank You and I Love You!” for always holding me down and lifting me up; you know who you are, and you hold a forever place in my heart. If you need to ask (or wonder) if that refers to you, it probably doesn’t. My Tribe never has to questions my unconditional love, loyalty, dedication, and commitment. Last, a special acknowledgement to the Walden staff who have provided the guidance, encouragement, critique, and support throughout this process. Thank you to my Chair, Dr. Susan Marcus, your positive support and guidance have kept me motivated and I appreciate your honest feedback and for taking on my study. Next, my SCM, Dr. Jana Sharps-Price your encouragement and enthusiasm have been a positive motivation in times when I was unsure about doing a study on serial killers. I have to thank my mentor, who encouraged my path down “The Dark Side,” Dr. Eric Hickey, your passion for the topic and willingness to share your knowledge, support, and data have been profound. I look forward to working with you in the future. Last, Dr. David Rentler, the first instructor at Walden to challenge what I thought I knew about scholarly writing. He took my self-appointed pedestal and made me earn my “write” to become a better scholar. Table of Contents List of Tables ..................................................................................................................... vi Chapter 1: Introduction to the Study ....................................................................................1 Background ....................................................................................................................2 Problem Statement .........................................................................................................3 Purpose of the Study ......................................................................................................4 Research Questions ........................................................................................................4 Conceptual Framework ..................................................................................................5 Nature of Study ..............................................................................................................6 Definitions......................................................................................................................7 Assumptions ...................................................................................................................8 Scope and Delimitations ................................................................................................9 Limitations .....................................................................................................................9 Significance..................................................................................................................10 Summary ......................................................................................................................10 Chapter 2: Literature Review .............................................................................................12 Introduction ..................................................................................................................12