One significant drawback of criminal profiling is the wide variation of results among profilers. Factors that affect this variation includes the difference in investigative background among profilers, which necessarily influences the profiling being done. The prove inconsistency among profiler results demonstrates a basic lack of validity (Young, 2006, p. 22).
Godwin (2002, p. 8) also notes that profiling serial murders generally lack a rigorous examination of existing data and contributing factors beyond case reports. In other words, the type and amount of data are insufficient to truly create an accurate profile of a serial murderer in any more than accidental terms.
Despite these drawbacks, there are also significant advantages to the criminal profiling process, one of which is the identification of signature behavior (Young, 2006). Such a typology can help investigators link apparently unrelated crimes by increasing the depth of the investigation. In turn, this will also result in greater ability among investigators to identify and arrest criminals.
In conclusion, it is clear, as Young (2006) points out, that there is much room for improvement in...
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