Summary Thoughts on Some Basic Aspects of Offender Profiling

Abstract

Criminal profiling is a rapidly evolving and also an extremely controversial area of criminal investigation. During decades of application and numerous studies on this subject different methods of criminal profiling emerged, which differ in methodology, basic philosophy and aim. Some claim that criminal profiling is totally unreliable; others say that it is not any different than classic police work. In this article I attempt to clarify some basic definitions; overview how criminal profiling has become a coherent system from elements already known; present the most recognized methods of criminal profiling, and last, but not least provide a quick insight into the Hungarian aspects of criminal profiling.