In relation to the information processed, the experienced car-
crime investigators focused on a smaller number of variables for
linkage than the other groups. On examining which variables were
associated with the correct linking of cases and which were associ-
ated with incorrect linking, more context-dependent variables
resulted in less accuracy (e.g. property taken). In contrast, the use
of behaviours that could be considered more inherent to the
offender, such as type of vehicle targeted and time of taking, was
associated with more accurate linkage.
Criminal psychology is an exciting field in which to research and
work. Offender profiling in particular has captured the interest of
the public and students of criminal psychology alike. In contrast
to its portrayal in the popular media, it is a field in its infancy
which still requires a lot of development, particularly in relation to
establishing a solid theoretical base and evaluating its effectiveness
in a methodologically rigorous way. Similarly, while case linkage
has also received research attention it is a developing field and one
that perhaps does not lend itself as well to exciting dramatization:
hence its absence from popular media. Research to test its assump-
tions is showing promising results. However, practitioners of
offender profiling and case linkage should proceed with caution
until further research is conducted.
Ainsworth, P. (2001) Offender profiling and crime analysis.
London: Willan Publishing.
Alison, L. J. (ed.) (2005) The forensic psychologist’s casebook:
Psychological profiling and criminal investigation. Cullompton,
UK: Willan.
Alison, L. J., Bennell, C., Mokros, A. and Ormerod, D. (2002) The
personality paradox in offender profiling: A theoretical review
34 criminal psychology: a beginner’s guide