Analyzing Serial Killer Eyes: Do They Truly Indicate a Psychopath?

Have you ever heard of “serial killer eyes?” If you’re wondering what makes a person have what is referred to as “psychopath eyes,” keep reading to find out the characteristics of serial killer eyes, whether eyes are a reliable way to identify a psychopath, and other signs of psychopathy backed by research.

What are serial killer eyes?

"Serial killer eyes" is a phrase that describes the cold gaze of a psychopath. Characteristics include fluctuating pupil dilation, very dark irises, reduced blinking, an intense stare, and having too much white above or below the iris. These eye behaviors alone are not a reliable way to identify a serial killer.

Section 1 of 7:

Characteristics of Serial Killer Eyes

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Pupil dilation Individuals with psychopathic traits can display what appears to be “black eyes.” This occurs when their pupils dilate (expand) often or remain overly dilated. Often, psychopaths are deeply affected by acts of violence, which may cause their pupils to dilate. Pupils also dilate when someone feels strong emotions, is frightened, or when taking certain medications. ^{[1]
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- Serial killer Ted Bundy’s blue eyes were said to appear black when speaking about murders he committed. ^{[2]
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Lack of dilation when viewing disturbing images Some psychopaths’ eyes don’t dilate at all while viewing upsetting images. A 2018 study of men with psychopathic traits showed a reduced pupil response when the subjects were shown negative images. This means that they may not feel fear or a sense of being threatened by things that bother others. ^{[3]
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- When non-psychopathic people see or hear frightening images, their pupils naturally dilate (grow larger) to reflect the body’s sympathetic nervous system. ^{[4]
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Less frequent blinking Those with psychopathic tendencies tend to blink less than other people do, especially when presented with violent imagery. In studies between 1994 and 2020, psychopathic criminals displayed less frequent blinking when watching disturbing or harmful images. This eye behavior is said to link to their inherent lack of empathy . ^{[5]
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- It’s important to note that the size, shape, and color of someone’s eyes are not connected to psychopathic or narcissistic traits.
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Emotionless eyes It’s believed that psychopaths struggle to convey emotion with their eyes, even when they act happy or pleased. When most people smile, their eyes “smile” as well, and show signs that include fine lines that form around the outside of their eyes. When those with psychopathic traits smile, they may be somewhat or completely unable to show emotion through their gaze. ^{[6]
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Intense stare Serial killers have often been portrayed as having a “psychopath stare,” known for its unsettling focus and intensity. It’s sometimes considered a way that psychopaths can exert dominance and control over others. Hollywood portrayals of psychopaths and serial killers often include a cold, emotionless gaze. Some actors do their best to develop an evil stare when playing a killer or psychopath. One of the best-known examples is the character of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs , as played by actor Anthony Hopkins. Traits of a “psychopathic stare” include: ^{[7]
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- Wide-eyed
- Lack of warmth or compassion
- Heightened intensity
- A threatening or predatory intensity
- Dilated pupils
- Eye contact held for an extended amount of time

Section 2 of 7:

What are Sanpaku eyes?

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Sanpaku eyes have a white space above or below the iris. Sanpaku is a Japanese word for individuals who have eyes with this noticeable amount of white space. Those with Sanpaku eyes are thought to have either a physical or emotional imbalance. Sanpaku means “three whites” or “three nights” in Japanese. ^{[8]
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- Yin sanpaku: The white of the eyes is visible below the iris. Those with Yin Sanpaku are said to be susceptible to disease, accidents, and a tragic death. Marilyn Monroe and John F. Kennedy are among those with Yin Sanpaku.
- Yang sanpaku: The white of the eyes is visible above the iris. Those with Yang Sanpaku are said to be aggressive, possibly violent, and unable to control their emotions. Serial killer Charles Manson is among those with Yang Sanpaku.
- Chinese culture views having Sanpaku eyes not as a sign of bad luck , but as a symbol of good luck and fortune.

Section 3 of 7:

Other Signs of Psychopathy

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Certain recognized behaviors and personality traits may signify psychopathy. While a person’s lack of or increased pupil dilation, issues with blinking, and ability to stare may point to certain psychopathic tendencies, other behaviors often reflect psychopathy more so. They include feeling a lack of empathy or compassion for others, the tendency to lie or be dishonest, or a sense of narcissism. Additional signs of a psychopath are ahead: ^{[9]
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- Lack of empathy: The inability to share the feelings of others.
- Narcissism: An inflated sense of self-importance.
- Deception: A tendency to lie or be dishonest.
- Impulsive behavior: Acting on desire without a fear of the consequences.
- Reduced sense of responsibility: Shows a pattern of irresponsible behavior.
- Dominance: Controlling or influencing relationships and situations.

Section 4 of 7:

Can you spot a serial killer by looking at their eyes?

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It’s not possible to identify a serial killer based solely on their eyes. The same holds true when observing an individual’s overall behaviors. When comparing serial killer eyes vs. normal eyes, it’s important to note that many of the "psychopath" eye behaviors can be due to social awkwardness, lack of confidence, trauma, shyness, or as a sign of autism . This means that it’s not always as easy as it seems to spot a psychopath .

Section 5 of 7:

What defines a psychopath?

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Psychopaths lack emotional response, empathy, and behavioral control. A psychopath lacks emotional response, empathy, and behavioral control. These personality traits, when severe enough, can result in antisocial deviance and violent or criminal behavior. Psychopaths are responsible for a great number of crimes, thanks to their dishonesty, ability to be unaffected by others’ emotions, and lack of fear or responsibility. ^{[10]
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- It’s thought that genetic risk factors come into play when it comes to psychopathy, with many traits appearing before the age of 10.
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Not all people with psychopathic traits are killers (or even criminals). It’s important to remember that not all people with psychopathic tendencies go out and commit a crime. Psychopathy is a spectrum that includes certain traits that don’t necessarily lead to violent or criminal behavior. They may make great lawyers, politicians, or businessmen who use their skills and traits in a positive way. ^{[11]
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Section 6 of 7:

Is psychopathy a medical diagnosis?

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Psychopathy is not listed as a formal diagnosis in the (DSM-5). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is used by medical professionals to diagnose mental health issues. Psychopathy is not a diagnosis in the manual. Instead, psychopathy is assessed through clinical interviews using the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R). ^{[12]
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Mental health professionals use the PCL-R to identify psychopathy. Forensic psychologists and mental health professionals use The Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) to assess psychopathy in clinical, research, and forensic settings. ^{[13]
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Research source} It was developed in the 1970s by Canadian researcher Robert Hare and has undergone several major revisions since then. The PCL-R assesses 20 specific traits and behaviors that fall under two categories: emotional detachment and antisocial behavior. ^{[14]
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- Some of the specific characteristics include: ^{[15]
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  - Grandiose sense of self-worth
  - Pathological lying and manipulation
  - Superficial charm
  - Proneness to boredom
  - Lack of remorse
  - Promiscuous sexual behavior & short-term relationships
  - Lack of realistic, long-term goals
  - Poor behavioral control & impulsive behavior
  - Failure to accept responsibility for one’s actions
  - Juvenile delinquency
- Each item on the PCL-R is scored as follows: 0 = does not apply, 1 = applies to some extent, 2 = fully applies.
- An individual is seen as having high levels of psychopathic traits when they receive a score of 30 or above in the assessment. The highest score someone can receive using this assessment is 40.
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Psychopathy and Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) are not the same thing. Though often confused with each other, ASPD is a diagnosed pattern of disregard for other people, which sometimes includes violating their rights. Psychopathy is a combination of traits like a lack of emotion and empathy, plus superficial charm, that result in antisocial behavior. ^{[16]
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- Psychopathy is seen as more severe and is associated with criminal acts and behavior.
- Psychopathy also includes interpersonal and affective traits, while ASPD mainly includes behavioral ones.
- ASPD is a clinical diagnosis in the DSM-5, whereas psychopathy is not a formal diagnosis, but is assessed through a psychopathy checklist.

Section 7 of 7:

Final Thoughts

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Psychopathy includes a complex set of traits that goes beyond just eyes. While certain physical traits and behaviors may be associated with what are termed “serial killer eyes,” analyzing someone’s eyes is not reliable enough proof that they have psychopathic tendencies. Other characteristics and behaviors, like lack of empathy, narcissism, dishonesty, and impulsive behavior, are better indicators that may reflect psychopathic traits in someone.

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Analyzing Serial Killer Eyes: Do They Truly Indicate a Psychopath?

What are serial killer eyes?

Steps

Characteristics of Serial Killer Eyes

What are Sanpaku eyes?

Other Signs of Psychopathy

Can you spot a serial killer by looking at their eyes?

What defines a psychopath?

Is psychopathy a medical diagnosis?

Final Thoughts

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