Lucy Letby, a nurse convicted of murdering seven babies, is examined in this episode which explores the characteristics and motivations of female serial killers. The podcast challenges stereotypes and societal perceptions, discussing the impact of personal experiences and gender stereotypes on our perception of these criminals. It also highlights the importance of understanding the motivations behind female serial killers and the debate between focusing on motivation or prevention systems.
Female serial killers often fit the profile of caregivers, such as nurses or mothers.
Lucy Letby, although deviating from some aspects of the typical profile, exhibited traits of a psychopath.
Deep dives
Female Serial Killers as Caregivers
Female serial killers, like Lucy Letby, have been found to often fall under the category of caregivers. This includes nurses, aides, and mothers who are responsible for providing care to others. Research indicates that around 40% of female serial killers have some form of caregiving role. Lucy Letby, as a nurse in charge of vulnerable children, fits into this profile.
The Profile of a Female Serial Killer
Based on statistical research, a profile has been identified for female serial killers. They are typically white, in their 20s or 30s, of average intelligence and attractiveness. They may be legally employed, often in caregiving roles such as nursing. They may have experienced abuse or issues with parents, and could have a history of mental health problems. Female serial killers may murder for money or power, using methods like poisoning or suffocation to mimic natural death. These crimes often occur in suburban areas.
Understanding Lucy Letby
While Lucy Letby fits many aspects of the profile for a female serial killer, there are also some deviations. For example, she was not married or in a relationship, which is common among female serial killers. Additionally, there is no reported evidence of diagnosed mental illness. However, her calm and cooperative demeanor during questioning aligns with the traits of a psychopath. Female serial killers, like Lucy Letby, often present a normal and pleasant facade while hiding a darker side.
Since the nurse Lucy Letby was convicted of murdering seven babies, one question has remained – and may always be – unanswered: why?
In this episode we speak to an expert on female serial killers who outlines why we shouldn't be shocked by Letby and her crimes, and how Letby fits the profile of a female serial killer. But also – even more chillingly – how she doesn't.
This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: thetimes.co.uk/storiesofourtimes.
Book: Just As Deadly: The Psychology of Female Serial Killers https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/just-as-deadly/085C912B92AAD29C2B76251C56D91356
Guest: Marissa A. Harrison, Professor of Psychology, Penn State Harrisburg.
Host: Luke Jones.
Helplines: NSPCC provides help, advice and support to adults worried about a child.
Phone: 0808 800 5000 (24/7)
https://www.nspcc.org.uk
Samaritans is available for anyone struggling to cope and provides a safe place to talk 24 hours a day: https://www.samaritans.org