Sue Russell (1) (1948–)

Russell does an excellent job in covering the background and history of Aileen Wuornos. She covers the mitigating factors that might have contributed to Aileen/Lee becoming who and what she was, a serial killer.

There is not enough empirical data on female serial killers. As a result it is difficult to analyze her with any certainty, but Russell consulted and interviewed psychologists who did work with Wuornos. The consensus is that she falls into the guidelines established by expert Robert Hare who developed the standards for an individual with a borderline personality disorder. This diagnosis would be likely, but sociopath is not a legal defense for murder.

From Russell's research we can conclude Wuornos knew the difference between right and wrong. She justified her actions by convincing herself and others that her actions were self defense.

I would recommend this book for anyone who likes true crime novels, or like myself likes to analyze the psychological profiles of individuals like Wuornos, Bundy, Radar, Ridgeway, and so on.… (meer)