There was an ad on TV for one of Dr. Phil's shows a few weeks ago, where he said that serial killers have fourteen particular behavioural pointers. The show was about a kid who had nine of those pointers and was well on the way to being the next Jeffrey Dahmer.

Unfortunately I missed the show - pity that because it looked interesting.

Really? I'd like to find out what they are. I've only heard of three characteristics or common traits:

1. Abusive childhood
2. Cruelty to animals and/or children as a child
3. Bed-wetting at a late age

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Additional thought: Should/Does a child which exhibits signs of becoming a serial killer be sent to therapy or something similar?

Sure, any kid showing signs of maladjustment or problem behavior should be given help wherever possible.

In general, I would like to see more emphasis on psychological adjustment in our schools.

What is a healthy and realistic outlook on life?

What is a healthy sense of self-esteem and ego?

What is a healthy way to relate to other people?

What is a healthy way to deal with disagreements or people who are different from you?

What is healthy way to deal with mistakes and disappointment?

These are things that were never taught in the schools of my day, but I believe these basic psychological skills contribute as much to living a good life as knowing the basics of reading, writing and math.
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