In "The Mass Killer," psychoanalyst Dr. Gerald Schoenewolf delivers a groundbreaking exploration of the psychological, familial, and cultural factors that create mass murderers. Through meticulous examination of six notorious cases—including Adam Lanza, Stephen Paddock, and Seung-Hui Cho—Schoenewolf reveals the hidden patterns and commonalities that connect these individuals beyond their tragic acts.

Unlike many books on this subject, Schoenewolf digs deep into the killers' early childhood experiences, uncovering how family dysfunction, parental neglect, and societal forces converged to create individuals who would eventually lash out in devastating violence. The author examines the psychological concept of "rage stages" and how unprocessed trauma and anger evolve into homicidal intent.

Schoenewolf challenges conventional wisdom about mass shootings, arguing that gun access is merely a means, not the cause. Instead, he points to broader cultural deterioration, including political polarization, shifting family structures, and the psychological impact of media violence on vulnerable individuals.

The book culminates with a thoughtful, if challenging, discussion of potential preventive measures that address the root causes of these tragedies—measures that would require significant social reform but could ultimately stem the rising tide of mass violence in America.

If you enjoyed "The Anatomy of Violence," "Why Kids Kill: Inside the Minds of School Shooters," and "The Evil That Men Do," you'll love "The Mass Killer: Six Case Histories That Tell Us Why."