S1: Ep. 3 : The Hero Complex

The “hero complex” is a psychological term used to describe people with the compulsive, insatiable need to help others. This impulse is typically only harmful to the individual suffering from the complex, as they go above and beyond to help everyone and everything they can. But the hero complex can also manifest itself in criminal ways. These people create life-threatening scenarios which they have the skills to resolve, seeking recognition for their so-called heroic acts. This complex commonly shows up in careers meant to help others like law enforcement, fire and rescue, and nursing.

Articles Referenced During Episode:

University of Arkansas Criminal Justice Institute- The “Hero Syndrome”, by Sergeant Ben D. Cross

The Washington Post- ‘Hero’ Admits Planting Olympic Bomb, by Jay Mathews

Vanity Fair- American Nightmare: The Ballad of Richard Jewell, by Marie Brenner

Psychology Today- “Hero” Serial Killers: Some healthcare workers like the rush of “saving” patients they've endangered, by Katherine Ramsland, Ph.D.

NPR- Former German Nurse Guilty of Killing 85 Patients In Serial Murder Case, by Bill Chappell

The New York Times - Former Patient Points to Nurse In Murder Trial, by Philip S. Gutis

Books

Inside the Minds of Healthcare Serial Killers, by Katherine Ramsland, Ph.D.

TV Shows/Movies:

Manhunt: Deadly Games

Richard Jewell

Criminal Minds - Hero Syndrome Episodes

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