Criminologists and forensic psychologists dedicate their careers to understanding the root causes of extreme behavior, not to glorify such behavior, but rather to better understand how the human mind can reach such extremes—and how to watch for similar warning behaviors in future potential offenders.

In these 12 episodes, plunge into some of the darkest criminal mental states, methods, and motives. Ted Bundy, John Wayne Gacy, Jeffrey Dahmer, and other mass, spree, and serial killers each had their own developmental path toward violence. What set them off on such horrible paths? How can we hope to stop future extreme offenders before they start? The answers require an intense journey into the heart of human darkness.

For five years, Dr. Ramsland worked with Dennis Rader on his autobiography, Confession of a Serial Killer: The Untold Story of Dennis Rader, The BTK Killer. She understands as well as anyone just how dark and disturbing it can be to get inside the mind of an extreme offender. But what she’s brought back to us from that darkness—insights into the intricacies of human behavior, possible treatment options for future offenders, stories of how criminologists work—is undeniably illuminating.

Please note that this series contains graphic descriptions and depictions of violence, sexual violence, sexually explicit language, and offensive and dehumanizing language, which may be disturbing and may not be suitable for minors or other audiences. It is intended for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of mental health conditions.