Internally Motivated Instrumental Homicide: Psychophysiololgical and Psychological Peri-Homicidal Reactions

This study examined the psychophysiological and psychological mechanisms associated with two cases of internally-driven instrumental homicide; one where the goal was homicide itself and one where the goal was rape. Case material is presented. Standard psychological tests were administered. In addition, a five-stage, personalised guided imagery methodology was employed to assist in the recreation of the memory of each homicidal act so that psychological and psychophysiological responses to homicide could be measured. The responses to the homicidal acts were compared with responses to nonviolent, aggressive imagery and emotionally neutral imagery. The patterns of response of these two cases were markedly different and highlighted the differential responses of homicidal individuals within the instrumental category. The use of this imagery methodology in the assessment of homicidal motive is discussed.