The Most Famous Criminal Psychologist, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the criminal psychologist you think is the most famous!

Updated on Apr 28, 2024 07:05

Understanding the minds behind some of the most complex criminal investigations can be as intriguing as the cases themselves. Criminal psychologists delve into deep psychological analysis to help bring clarity to cases that often seem unsolvable. Their work not only aids in solving crimes but also helps in understanding the psychological mechanisms that drive criminal behavior. By ranking these professionals, you have the opportunity to highlight those whose insights and contributions have proven most influential in the field. This dynamic ranking allows you to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these experts. Your votes help acknowledge the impact of their work in advancing criminal psychology and justice.

Who Is the Most Famous Criminal Psychologist?

1

60
votes
Dr. David Canter

Canter is a pioneer in the field of criminal profiling and has worked on a number of high-profile cases, including the Yorkshire Ripper and the Shirley McKie fingerprint case.
Dr. David Canter in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous Forensic Psychologist
2

35
votes

Dr. Helen Morrison

Morrison is known for her work in studying serial killers and has conducted interviews with many notorious murderers, including John Wayne Gacy and Ted Bundy.
3

30
votes
Warner Brothers · Public domain

Dr. Robert Hare

Hare is known for developing the Psychopathy Checklist, which is widely used in the assessment and diagnosis of psychopathy.
Dr. Robert Hare in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Forensic Psychologist
4

19
votes

Dr. John Douglas

Douglas is a former FBI agent and one of the founders of criminal profiling. He has worked on numerous high-profile cases, including the Unabomber and the Green River Killer.
5

10
votes
Dr. James Fallon

Fallon is a neuroscientist who has studied the brains of psychopaths and serial killers. He has also written a book about his own discovery that he has many of the traits associated with psychopathy.
Dr. James Fallon in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Forensic Psychologist
6

15
votes
Dr. Mary Ellen O'Toole

O'Toole is a former FBI profiler who has worked on a number of high-profile cases, including the DC Sniper and the Unabomber.
Dr. Mary Ellen O'Toole in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous Forensic Psychologist
7

4
votes

Dr. Park Dietz

Dietz is a forensic psychiatrist who has worked on a number of high-profile cases, including the Jeffrey Dahmer and John Hinckley Jr. trials.
8

6
votes
Dr. Katherine Ramsland

Ramsland is a professor of forensic psychology and has written numerous books on serial killers and criminal psychology.
Dr. Katherine Ramsland in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous Forensic Psychologist
9

4
votes

Dr. Richard Kuklinski

Kuklinski was a notorious hitman who worked for the Mafia and was known as the "Iceman." He was interviewed extensively by Dr. Park Dietz and his story was the subject of a documentary and feature film.
10

12
votes

Dr. Adrian Raine

Raine is a neurocriminologist who has studied the brains of violent criminals and has conducted research on the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to criminal behavior.

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Ranking factors for famous criminal psychologist

Contributions to the field

The extent to which the psychologist's work has contributed to the advancement of criminal psychology.
Research

The quantity, quality, and impact of the psychologist's research on the subject.
Publications

The number of publications by the psychologist, as well as the relevance and impact of these publications in the field.
Professional reputation

The psychologist's standing in the field of criminal psychology, as indicated by accolades, honors, and awards received.
Practical experience

The psychologist's hands-on experience working with criminals and contributing to real-life cases.
Popularity and media presence

Public recognition of the psychologist and their work through media appearances, interviews, and general public perception.
Overall legacy

The lasting impact the psychologist has had on the field of criminal psychology.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous criminal psychologist. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or psychologist is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2172 views
189 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each psychologist once every 24 hours. The rank of each psychologist is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous criminal psychologist

Background Information: Criminal psychology is an area of study that focuses on the behavior of criminals and their motives behind committing crimes. The field of criminal psychology is often portrayed in popular culture as a tool used by law enforcement to catch criminals, but it is also used in the legal system to understand the minds of criminals and help with the rehabilitation process. One of the most famous criminal psychologists is Dr. Helen Morrison, who is known for her work in profiling serial killers. She has interviewed over 135 serial killers, including John Wayne Gacy and Ted Bundy, and has provided expert testimony in high-profile trials. Another notable criminal psychologist is Dr. Robert Hare, who developed the Hare Psychopathy Checklist, which is used to diagnose psychopathy in individuals. His research has had a significant impact on the criminal justice system, particularly in the area of sentencing and treatment for psychopathic offenders. Other famous criminal psychologists include Dr. David Canter, who developed the investigative psychology approach to criminal profiling, and Dr. Richard Kocsis, who specializes in the assessment and treatment of sexual offenders. Overall, the work of criminal psychologists is essential in understanding criminal behavior and developing effective strategies for preventing and addressing criminal activity.