Serial killers are commonly portrayed in the media as being highly intelligent (e.g., column by Dr. Joyce Brothers in Seattlpi.com on 8-14-2007). This portrayal is perhaps due to the media focusing on serial killers such as Ted Bundy and mythical serial killers such as Hannibal Lecter (Silence of the Lambs).



► We were able to obtain IQ information on 202 serial killers



► When taken as a whole, serial killers appear to be of normal IQ

● Median = 89.0, Mean = 95.1

● Low was 57 (Simon Pirela)

● High was 165 (Theodore Kaczynski)

- A second IQ testing put him at 155



► As expected, IQ varied by the type of serial killer

● Raped victim

Yes: Mean IQ = 94.2

No: Mean IQ = 96.3



● Method of killing

Stab : Mean IQ = 96.0

Multiple methods: Mean IQ = 98.0

Strangle: Mean IQ = 97.9

Shoot : Mean IQ = 93.0

Bludgeon: Mean IQ = 86.3

Bomb: Mean IQ = 140.3



● Motive

Financial Gain: Mean IQ = 90.9

Enjoyment : Mean IQ = 100.4

Anger : Mean IQ = 101.1



● Type

Organized : Mean IQ = 99.6

Disorganized : Mean IQ = 93.2





► IQ data are complex as extreme scores are more likely to be publicized

and there is certainly motivation to score low (especially below 70)