Representation of female serial killers in Criminal Minds

Abstract

This thesis examines the representation of female serial killers in the television series Criminal Minds, and how the series simultaneously reinforces and challenges traditional gender norms and stereotypes. The thesis argues that while the show's certain portrayals strengthen some stereotypical tropes such as the femme fatale archetype and the notion that women are inherently nurturing, the series also challenges these norms by portraying female serial killers as complex, highly intelligent, calculating and dominant figures. The study further investigates how Criminal Minds contributes to the romanticization of female violence, blurring the line between empathy and sensationalism.