Criminal Profiling: Developing an Effective Science and Practice

Caption

“Beyond intuition: Building criminal profiling into a rigorous, scientific discipline.”

 Synopsis

In Criminal Profiling, psychologists Scotia J. Hicks and Bruce D. Sales deliver a definitive critique and reconstruction of criminal profiling as a scientific enterprise. The first half of the book takes aim at conventional, non‑scientific models—such as those popularized by the FBI and prominent authors like Holmes & Holmes or Turvey—highlighting their reliance on intuition, typological assumptions, and subjective judgment rather than empirical evidence.

The authors then pivot to propose a research-driven alternative: a precise model that links crime scene evidence, offender motives, personality, and observed behavior in testable, theoretical frameworks. They offer practical guidance on structuring profiling as a discipline—with standardized definitions, clearly stated goals, and measurable outcomes.

Part II outlines steps toward validating this scientific model—emphasizing data collection, hypothesis testing, and rigorous analysis. The book concludes with recommendations for integrating profiling into investigative practice only after scientific validation, thereby minimizing error, increasing transparency, and reinforcing accountability in criminal investigations. A must-read for law enforcement professionals, forensic psychologists, and social scientists focused on meaningful reform in profiling practice.