Psychology In Seattle Podcast Jeffrey Dahmer and The Dark Tetrad (2019 rerun)
Nov 4, 2025
Kirsten Palmer, an undergraduate psychology student and former funeral director, joins to delve into the psychology of Jeffrey Dahmer. They explore Dahmer's traumatic childhood, linking early experiences to his later violent tendencies. The discussion expands into the Dark Tetrad, revealing traits like low empathy and sadism. Kirk and Kirsten also examine societal fascination with serial killers, police oversights, and how masculinity influences violence. Their insights provide a deeper understanding of personality disorders and the complexities behind Dahmer's actions.
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Why Dahmer Shocked The Public
- Jeffrey Dahmer's crimes grabbed sensational media attention due to necrophilia, cannibalism, and targeting gay men of color.
- These shocking details shaped public fascination and forensic interest in his psychology.
Student Picked Dahmer For Psychobiography
- Kirsten Palmer chose Dahmer for a psychobiography in her personality class because of his extreme behaviors.
- She studies personality disorders and wanted expert input for her paper.
Dahmer's Unusually Candid Interviews
- Dahmer was unusually forthcoming in prison interviews, giving clinicians access to his internal history.
- That candidness revealed childhood trauma and relational struggles uncommon in other serial killer accounts.
