Mind Crank Media

25/12/2023

911 call, mom finds son's headless body and stays eerily calm as she calls cops

Later, it was discovered that an acquaintance of his killed him and put his head in the freezer...

* MATURE CONTENT / DISCRETION ADVISED * (As originally appeared on ...)On 10/4/08, Judy Smith became worried when her son didn't show up for h...

03/10/2023

23/09/2023

Serial killers often have complex and varied motivations that can differ from one individual to another. While there is no one-size-fits-all explanation, some common factors and motivations observed in serial killers include:

1. **Psychological Gratification:** Many serial killers derive a sense of pleasure, power, or satisfaction from their crimes. The act of killing may provide them with a feeling of control or dominance over their victims.

2. **Fantasy Fulfillment:** Some serial killers have elaborate fantasies that they seek to act out. The murders become a way to live out these fantasies, often repeatedly.

3. **Attention and Notoriety:** Serial killers may seek attention and notoriety, desiring to be infamous or remembered for their crimes. This can be a driving factor for some.

4. **Psychological Disorders:** Many serial killers have diagnosable mental disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder or sa**sm, which can contribute to their actions.

5. **Trauma and Childhood Abuse:** A history of childhood abuse, neglect, or trauma can play a role in the development of serial killers. It may lead to a lack of empathy and a propensity for violence.

6. **Compulsion:** Some serial killers have a compulsion to kill that they cannot control. This is often linked to deep-seated psychological issues.

7. **Sexual Gratification:** For some serial killers, sexual arousal is linked to violence or killing. They may commit sexual acts on or with their victims.

It's essential to remember that each case is unique, and not all serial killers fit neatly into these categories. The study of serial killers is a complex and ongoing field of research, and experts continue to explore the factors that drive individuals to commit these heinous crimes.

23/09/2023

The development of serial killers is a complex topic, and there is no single cause that can explain it. It often results from a combination of factors, including:

1. Psychological factors: Many serial killers have underlying mental disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder or psychopathy, which can contribute to their violent behavior.

2. Childhood experiences: Traumatic or abusive experiences during childhood, including neglect, physical abuse, or witnessing violence, can play a significant role in shaping a person's behavior.

3. Genetics and brain structure: Some research suggests that genetics and brain abnormalities may contribute to violent tendencies in certain individuals, although the exact mechanisms are not well understood.

4. Social and environmental factors: Factors like a dysfunctional family environment, social isolation, or exposure to violent media can influence someone's development toward becoming a serial killer.

5. Triggering events: Certain life events or stressors may trigger violent behavior in individuals who already have predisposing factors.

It's important to note that not everyone with these risk factors becomes a serial killer, and many people who experience difficult circumstances do not resort to violence. Serial killers are a rare and extreme subset of individuals with complex backgrounds and psychological profiles.

23/09/2023

Psychopathy, sociopathy, and narcissism are terms used in psychology to describe distinct personality traits and disorders, though they can sometimes overlap. Here are some key differences:

1. Psychopath:
- Psychopathy is typically considered a more severe and innate personality disorder.
- Psychopaths tend to display a lack of empathy, remorse, and guilt.
- They often have superficial charm and are skilled manipulators.
- Psychopathy is believed to have a strong genetic component.

2. Sociopath:
- Sociopathy is often considered a result of environmental factors and upbringing.
- Sociopaths may have a more chaotic and unstable life history.
- They can form attachments to others, but these relationships are often shallow and manipulative.
- Sociopathy is sometimes used interchangeably with the term "antisocial personality disorder."

3. Narcissist:
- Narcissism is a personality trait or disorder characterized by an excessive focus on one's own needs, desires, and self-importance.
- Narcissists may lack empathy, but not to the extent of psychopaths.
- They have an inflated sense of self-worth and often seek admiration and attention.
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a clinical diagnosis for severe narcissistic traits.

It's important to note that these terms can be subjective, and there is ongoing debate within the field of psychology about their precise definitions and distinctions. Additionally, individuals may exhibit a combination of these traits to varying degrees. Diagnosis and treatment should be conducted by qualified mental health professionals.

23/09/2023

Psychopathic Personality Disorder, often referred to as Antisocial Personality Disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), is a complex and controversial condition. Here are 29 facts about it:

1. Prevalence: Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is estimated to affect around 1% of the general population.

2. Gender: It is more commonly diagnosed in men than in women.

3. Early Signs: ASPD often begins to manifest in childhood or adolescence, with symptoms such as cruelty to animals and aggression.

4. Diagnostic Criteria: Diagnosis is typically based on specific criteria, including a pattern of disregard for the rights of others and a history of criminal behavior.

5. Lack of Empathy: One hallmark trait is a lack of empathy and an inability to understand or care about the feelings of others.

6. Impulsivity: Impulsivity is a common feature, leading to risky behaviors and disregard for consequences.

7. Superficial Charm: Many individuals with ASPD can be charming and manipulative, masking their true nature.

8. Childhood Conduct Disorder: Most individuals with ASPD had a history of childhood conduct disorder.

9. Criminality: Many individuals with ASPD have extensive criminal records.

10. Recidivism: High rates of recidivism are common among individuals with ASPD who engage in criminal behavior.

11. Treatment Challenges: ASPD can be challenging to treat, as individuals often resist therapy and fail to recognize the need for change.

12. Genetics: There is evidence suggesting a genetic component to ASPD, with a higher risk for those with a family history of the disorder.

13. Brain Differences: Brain imaging studies have shown differences in the brains of individuals with ASPD, particularly in areas related to impulse control and moral decision-making.

14. Lack of Remorse: Individuals with ASPD often lack remorse for their actions and may blame others for their problems.

15. Substance Abuse: Co-occurring substance abuse disorders are common among those with ASPD.

16. Manipulative Behavior: They may engage in manipulative and deceitful behaviors to achieve their goals.

17. Relationship Difficulties: Maintaining stable relationships can be challenging due to trust issues and impulsivity.

18. Legal Consequences: Many individuals with ASPD have extensive legal troubles and may spend time in prison.

19. Risky Sexual Behavior: Promiscuity and risky sexual behavior are common among individuals with ASPD.

20. Glibness: They can be glib and superficially charming in social interactions.

21. Lack of Long-Term Goals: Individuals with ASPD may have difficulty setting and achieving long-term goals.

22. Violence: Although not all individuals with ASPD are violent, some may engage in physical aggression.

23. Shallow Emotions: They may experience shallow or fleeting emotions, making it difficult to form deep emotional connections.

24. Work Difficulties: Maintaining steady employment can be challenging due to impulsivity and conflicts with authority figures.

25. Lack of Responsibility: They often fail to take responsibility for their actions and may rationalize their behavior.

26. Childhood Abuse: Many individuals with ASPD have a history of childhood abuse or neglect.

27. Early Intervention: Early intervention and treatment for conduct disorder in childhood can help reduce the risk of developing ASPD.

28. Criminal Profiling: Some individuals with ASPD may become skilled at criminal activities, making them challenging for law enforcement to apprehend.

29. Ethical Considerations: The diagnosis and treatment of ASPD raise ethical questions, as it involves balancing the need for public safety with the rights of individuals with the disorder.

It's important to note that ASPD is a complex and controversial diagnosis, and individuals with this disorder can vary widely in their behaviors and characteristics. Treatment and management typically involve a multidisciplinary approach, including therapy and, in some cases, legal interventions.

23/09/2023

29 facts about Schizoid Personality Disorder:

1. Schizoid Personality Disorder (SPD) is a mental health condition characterized by a pervasive pattern of social detachment and limited emotional expression.

2. It's one of the Cluster A personality disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

3. People with SPD often prefer solitude and have little interest in forming close relationships.

4. Emotional coldness and indifference to praise or criticism are common traits of individuals with SPD.

5. Unlike schizophrenia, people with SPD do not typically experience hallucinations or delusions.

6. They tend to have a limited range of emotional expression and may appear emotionally detached.

7. SPD may become noticeable in early adulthood, but symptoms may be present earlier.

8. Individuals with SPD often have difficulty expressing anger or hostility.

9. They might find pleasure in solitary activities like reading, gaming, or hobbies.

10. People with SPD may struggle with initiating or maintaining conversations.

11. They often have few close friends, if any, and prefer solitary work.

12. It's challenging for individuals with SPD to form romantic relationships.

13. Emotional detachment can sometimes be mistaken for shyness.

14. They may not seek out social interactions even when lonely.

15. SPD can cause distress and impairment in social or occupational functioning.

16. Comorbid conditions, like depression or anxiety disorders, can co-occur with SPD.

17. The exact cause of SPD is unclear, but genetic, environmental, and developmental factors may contribute.

18. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can be helpful for managing SPD symptoms.

19. Medication is not typically the primary treatment for SPD, but it may be used to address comorbid conditions.

20. Individuals with SPD often have a rich inner world of thoughts and fantasies.

21. They may find it challenging to express their emotions or understand the emotions of others.

22. SPD is relatively rare, with estimates suggesting it affects less than 1% of the general population.

23. It's important to differentiate SPD from other personality disorders, such as Schizotypal Personality Disorder or Avoidant Personality Disorder.

24. Early intervention and treatment can help improve social functioning for those with SPD.

25. Social isolation can exacerbate symptoms, so support from friends and family is essential.

26. Individuals with SPD may have difficulty recognizing and responding to social cues.

27. They may have a strong need for personal space and autonomy.

28. While they may not desire close relationships, they can experience loneliness.

29. Coping mechanisms, like intellectualizing emotions, are common in people with SPD.

Please note that a qualified mental health professional should diagnose and provide treatment for Schizoid Personality Disorder.

23/09/2023

29 terms associated with narcissism and their definitions:

1. **Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)**: A mental condition characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a constant need for attention and admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.

2. **Grandiosity**: Exaggerated feelings of superiority, importance, or entitlement.

3. **Empathy Deficit**: The inability or unwillingness to understand or share the feelings of others.

4. **Narcissistic Supply**: The attention, admiration, or validation that narcissists constantly seek from others to bolster their self-esteem.

5. **Mirroring**: Mimicking the behaviors, interests, or opinions of others to gain their approval or admiration.

6. **Idealization and Devaluation**: A cycle in which a narcissist initially idealizes someone, then devalues them when they no longer serve the narcissist's needs.

7. **Triangulation**: Manipulative tactic where a narcissist involves a third person to create jealousy or competition.

8. **Gaslighting**: A form of psychological manipulation in which the narcissist distorts or denies reality to make their victim doubt their own perceptions and sanity.

9. **Projection**: Attributing one's own negative traits or behaviors onto others.

10. **Hoovering**: Attempting to draw a former partner or victim back into a narcissistic relationship after a discard.

11. **Flying Monkeys**: Individuals manipulated by a narcissist to do their bidding, often unknowingly.

12. **Narcissistic Rage**: Intense anger or aggression displayed by a narcissist when their ego is threatened or their needs are not met.

13. **Covert Narcissism**: A type of narcissism characterized by a more subtle and hidden display of narcissistic traits.

14. **Narcissistic Injury**: A bruised ego or sense of self-worth resulting from criticism or perceived slights.

15. **Somatic Narcissist**: A narcissist who focuses on their physical appearance and uses their body to gain attention and admiration.

16. **Cerebral Narcissist**: A narcissist who emphasizes their intellectual superiority to gain admiration.

17. **Empath**: A person who is highly sensitive to the emotions of others and is often a target for narcissists.

18. **Gray Rock Method**: A strategy where a person dealing with a narcissist becomes emotionally unresponsive and boring to avoid provoking them.

19. **No Contact**: Cutting off all communication and contact with a narcissist to protect oneself from their manipulation.

20. **False Self**: The facade or persona that a narcissist presents to the world to hide their true, vulnerable self.

21. **Narcissistic Victim Syndrome**: The emotional and psychological trauma experienced by individuals who have been in a relationship with a narcissist.

22. **Love Bombing**: Overwhelming someone with affection, compliments, and attention in the early stages of a relationship to gain control.

23. **Histrionic Personality Disorder**: A personality disorder characterized by excessive attention-seeking and emotional expression.

24. **Cluster B Personality Disorders**: A group of personality disorders that includes NPD, borderline, antisocial, and histrionic personality disorders.

25. **Golden Child and Scapegoat**: Roles assigned to siblings in narcissistic families, where one is favored (golden child) and the other is blamed for family problems (scapegoat).

26. **Enabler**: Someone who supports or makes excuses for a narcissist's behavior.

27. **Triangulation**: A tactic where a narcissist creates conflicts or jealousy among people to maintain control.

28. **Flying Monkeys**: Individuals manipulated by the narcissist to do their bidding or harass the victim.

29. **Discard Phase**: The stage in a narcissistic relationship where the narcissist abandons or discards their partner when they no longer serve their needs.

These terms provide insights into the various aspects of narcissism and its effects on individuals and relationships.

23/09/2023

1. **Procedure**: ECT is typically performed in a hospital setting. The patient is first given general anesthesia and a muscle relaxant to prevent injury during the induced seizure. Then, electrodes are placed on the scalp, and a carefully controlled electrical current is passed through the brain. This causes a seizure that lasts for a short duration, usually less than a minute.

2. **Treatment Course**: ECT is typically administered in a series of sessions, usually spanning several weeks. The number of sessions needed varies from person to person, depending on the severity of their condition and how they respond to the treatment.

3. **Side Effects**: ECT can have side effects, including short-term memory loss and confusion immediately after the procedure. These side effects are usually temporary and improve as the treatment course progresses. Some people may experience headaches or muscle aches as well.

4. **Effectiveness**: ECT has been shown to be particularly effective in cases of severe depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. It often provides rapid relief from symptoms, which can be crucial for individuals at risk of self-harm or su***de.

5. **Controversy**: ECT has been controversial throughout its history due to concerns about its side effects and the ethical implications of administering electrical shocks to the brain. However, modern ECT practices prioritize patient safety and use carefully controlled parameters to minimize risks.

6. **Patient Selection**: ECT is typically reserved for cases where other treatments have not been successful or when immediate relief is needed. It is not a first-line treatment and is usually considered after other options have been exhausted.

7. **Informed Consent**: In most countries, patients must provide informed consent before undergoing ECT. This involves a thorough discussion of the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives to the treatment.

8. **Long-Term Effects**: Research on the long-term effects of ECT is ongoing, but it's generally considered safe for most individuals when administered by trained professionals.

If you or someone you know is considering ECT as a treatment option, it's essential to consult with a qualified mental health professional who can provide a thorough evaluation and guidance on the most appropriate treatment plan.

23/09/2023

Certainly, here is more information on lobotomies:

1. **History**: Lobotomies were developed in the 1930s by Portuguese neurologist Egas Moniz and further refined by American neurologist Walter Freeman. Initially, they were hailed as a breakthrough in treating severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

2. **Procedure**: The procedure involved drilling holes in the skull and inserting a sharp instrument, such as an ice pick, into the brain to sever connections in the frontal lobes. There were different methods, including transorbital lobotomy and prefrontal lobotomy.

3. **Controversy**: Lobotomies were highly controversial because they often resulted in severe personality changes, intellectual impairment, and emotional blunting in patients. Many considered them to be inhumane and a violation of patients' rights.

4. **Decline**: By the 1950s and 1960s, the use of lobotomies began to decline as more effective and less invasive treatments, such as psychiatric medications and psychotherapy, became available. The introduction of antipsychotic drugs played a significant role in this shift.

5. **Legacy**: Lobotomies remain a dark chapter in the history of psychiatry and medicine. They are now widely condemned for their harmful effects on patients and their lack of scientific basis.

6. **Ethical Concerns**: The use of lobotomies without informed consent and on vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, raised significant ethical concerns. This led to stricter regulations and oversight in medical procedures.

7. **Cultural References**: Lobotomies have been depicted in literature and film, notably in Ken Kesey's novel "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," which was later adapted into a film. These portrayals further contributed to public awareness of the procedure and its controversies.

In summary, lobotomies were a once-common but highly controversial and ethically problematic medical procedure for treating severe mental illnesses. They have largely been replaced by more humane and effective treatments in modern psychiatry.

23/09/2023

The Milgram experiment is considered one of the most famous and controversial studies in psychology. Here are some more details:

1. **Setup**: Participants were recruited under the pretense of participating in a study on memory and learning. They were asked to play the role of a "teacher" and were paired with a "learner" (who was an actor). The teacher's role was to administer electric shocks to the learner whenever they answered questions incorrectly.

2. **Shock Levels**: The participants believed they were delivering electric shocks to the learner, starting from mild shocks and escalating to severe shocks with each wrong answer. The shock machine had labels indicating increasing voltage, from 15 volts (Slight Shock) to 450 volts (###).

3. **Obedience to Authority**: The shocking part of the experiment was that an authority figure (the experimenter) in a lab coat would instruct the participants to continue shocking the learner, even when the learner appeared to be in extreme pain, protested, and eventually fell silent (pretending to be unconscious). The experimenter used verbal prods to encourage participants to continue, but no actual harm came to the learner.

4. **Results**: Astonishingly, a significant portion of participants continued to administer shocks even when they believed they were causing extreme pain or harm to the learner. Many participants showed signs of distress and conflict but continued due to perceived authority.

5. **Ethical Concerns**: The Milgram experiment raised serious ethical concerns about the psychological well-being of participants and the potential harm caused by the study. It led to the development of strict ethical guidelines for human research.

6. **Impact**: This study highlighted the power of authority and social conformity in influencing human behavior. It demonstrated how ordinary people could commit morally questionable acts when instructed by an authority figure. The findings from the Milgram experiment continue to be discussed and debated in the fields of psychology and ethics.

23/09/2023

Pavlov's dog refers to an experiment conducted by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov in the late 19th century. He conditioned a dog to associate the ringing of a bell with the presentation of food. Over time, the dog began to salivate at the sound of the bell alone, even when no food was present. This demonstrated the concept of classical conditioning, where a conditioned response is triggered by a previously neutral stimulus through repeated pairing with an unconditioned stimulus. It's a foundational experiment in psychology.

18/09/2023

Animals don't necessarily "obey" humans in the way that people obey rules or commands. However, some animals can be trained to respond to human cues or commands through a process called animal training. This training often involves positive reinforcement, where animals learn to associate certain behaviors with rewards or positive outcomes.

The level of obedience or responsiveness varies among species and individuals. It's not so much about obedience as it is about conditioning and communication. Some animals, like dogs, have been bred for thousands of years to work closely with humans and are more trainable and responsive to human commands, while other animals may have limited interactions with humans and, therefore, may not respond as readily.

Ultimately, animals interact with humans based on their instincts, past experiences, and the training or socialization they've received. It's important to treat animals with care and respect, using ethical training methods that prioritize their well-being.

18/09/2023

While there are many reputedly haunted asylums around the world, it's important to note that belief in ghosts and hauntings is subjective and not scientifically proven. However, here are 20 asylums that have gained a reputation for being haunted:

1. Pennhurst State School and Hospital - Pennsylvania, USA
2. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum - West Virginia, USA
3. Waverly Hills Sanatorium - Kentucky, USA
4. Byberry Mental Hospital - Pennsylvania, USA
5. Danvers State Hospital - Massachusetts, USA
6. Eloise Psychiatric Hospital - Michigan, USA
7. Athens Lunatic Asylum - Ohio, USA
8. St. Albans Sanatorium - Virginia, USA
9. Beechworth Lunatic Asylum - Victoria, Australia
10. Ararat Lunatic Asylum - Victoria, Australia
11. Lier Psychiatric Hospital - Lier, Norway
12. Severalls Hospital - Essex, England
13. Denbigh Asylum - Denbigh, Wales
14. Hellingly Hospital - East Sussex, England
15. Beechworth Lunatic Asylum - Victoria, Australia
16. Taunton State Hospital - Massachusetts, USA
17. Norwich State Hospital - Connecticut, USA
18. Overbrook Insane Asylum - New Jersey, USA
19. Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital - New Jersey, USA
20. Northampton State Hospital - Massachusetts, USA

These locations often have disturbing histories, which contribute to their haunted reputation. If you're interested in visiting any of these places, be sure to research their current status and any restrictions on access, as many of them are no longer in operation or have limited accessibility.

18/09/2023

Animal psychology, also known as comparative psychology or ethology, is the scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of non-human animals. It seeks to understand how animals perceive, learn, remember, communicate, and adapt to their environments. Animal psychologists use various methods such as observation, experimentation, and field studies to gain insights into the cognitive and behavioral processes of different species. This field of study helps us better understand the minds and behaviors of animals, contributing to our knowledge of animal welfare, conservation, and human-animal interactions.

18/09/2023

The exact causes of autism are still not fully understood, but researchers believe it is a complex condition influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some suspected causes and contributing factors include:

1. Genetic factors: Autism tends to run in families, suggesting a strong genetic component. Specific genes have been linked to autism, but no single gene is responsible for all cases.

2. Prenatal factors: Some prenatal factors that may increase the risk of autism include maternal exposure to certain medications, infections during pregnancy, and complications during birth.

3. Environmental factors: There is ongoing research into environmental factors such as air pollution, maternal stress, and exposure to toxins that may contribute to autism risk, although the evidence is not conclusive.

4. Brain development: Abnormalities in brain structure and function have been observed in individuals with autism, suggesting that disruptions in early brain development may play a role.

5. Immunological factors: Some studies have explored the potential role of the immune system in autism, but this area is still under investigation.

It's important to note that autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning it varies widely in its presentation and severity, and the causes can be different for each individual. Ongoing research is focused on better understanding these complex factors to improve our knowledge and potentially develop more effective interventions and treatments.