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

Popular movies and crime thrillers often depict serial killers as having traits that include a psychopathic stare or what appear to be "black eyes." Stories about psychopaths with "serial killer eyes" often depend on myths instead of facts, which can be very misleading if you want to know the truth about "serial killer eyes." Keep reading to learn about the actual characteristics of serial killer eyes, whether eyes are a reliable way to identify a psychopath, and other signs of psychopathy that is 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 8:

Characteristics of Serial Killer Eyes

Download Article

It’s believed that psychopaths struggle to convey emotion with their eyes, even when they act happy. When most people smile, their eyes “smile” as well, and show signs, including fine lines that form around the outside of their eyes. It's sometimes believed that, when those with psychopathic traits smile, they may be partly or completely unable to show emotion through their gaze.^{[1]
X
Research source}
2
Black Eyes Individuals with psychopathic traits can display what appears to be overly dark or “black eyes" (no matter what color eyes they have). This is said to occur when their pupils dilate (expand) often or remain overly dilated. Scientifically speaking, when psychopaths are deeply affected by acts of violence, it may cause their pupils to dilate. Pupils can also dilate when a person feels strong emotions, is frightened, or when taking certain medications.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Serial killer Ted Bundy’s blue eyes were said to appear black when speaking about the murders he committed.^{[3]
  X
  Research source}
Advertisement
3
Lack of dilation when viewing disturbing images A 2018 study of men with psychopathic traits showed a reduced pupil response when the subjects were shown negative images. This may indicate a lack of fear about things that normally might bother others. However, it's not necessarily an indication of psychopathy, but may actually indicate other psychological disorders like neurological issues, an eye injury, or brain damage.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- When non-psychopathic people see or hear frightening images, their pupils tend to naturally dilate (grow larger) to reflect the body’s sympathetic nervous system.^{[5]
  X
  Research source}
4
Less frequent blinking Those with psychopathic tendencies are believed to blink less than other people do, especially when presented with violent imagery. In studies between 1994 and 2020, a group of 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, although it's difficult to prove this theory.^{[6]
X
Research source}
- It’s important to note that the size, shape, and color of someone’s eyes are not connected to psychopathic or narcissistic traits.
5
Intense stare Having a “psychopath stare" can come across as being unsettling and overly intense. Many believe that psychopaths can exert dominance and control over others with an intense stare; 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. These portrayals are not based on fact or science. However, other traits of a psychopathic stare are said to include the following:^{[7]
X
Research source}
- 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 8:

What are Sanpaku eyes?

Download Article

Sanpaku eyes appear to have a white space above or below the iris. Sanpaku is a Japanese word for individuals who have eyes with a noticeable amount of while space in their eyes. Those with Sanpaku eyes are thought to have either a physical or emotional imbalance. Sanpaku means “three whites” or “three nights” in Japanese.^{[8]
X
Research source}
- 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 believed to have 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 believed to have 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 8:

Other Signs of Psychopathy

Download Article

Certain recognized behaviors and personality traits may signify psychopathy. While pupil dilation, lack of blinking, and an intense stare may point to certain psychopathic tendencies, other behaviors can more reliably reflect psychopathy. 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]
X
Research source}
- 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 8:

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

Download Article

The same is 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. These additional traits are reasons why it's not as easy as it seems to spot a psychopath.

Section 5 of 8:

What defines a psychopath?

Download Article

1
Psychopaths tend to lack emotional response, empathy, and behavioral control. When severe enough, these personality traits can result in antisocial deviance and violent or criminal behavior. Psychopaths are responsible for a great number of crimes for many other reasons that include dishonesty, being unaffected by others’ emotions, and a lack of fear or responsibility.^{[10]
X
Research source}
- It’s thought that genetic risk factors come into play when it comes to psychopathy, with many traits appearing before the age of 10.
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 positively use their skills and traits without harming others.^{[11]
X
Research source}

Section 6 of 8:

Is psychopathy a medical diagnosis?

Download Article

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. Instead of a diagnosis, psychopathy is typically assessed through clinical interviews using the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R). The PCL-R assesses 20 specific traits and behaviors that fall under two categories: emotional detachment and antisocial behavior.^{[12]
X
Research source}
- Some of the specific characteristics include:^{[13]
  X
  Research source}
  - 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.

Section 7 of 8:

Are psychopathy & antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) the same thing?

Download Article

No, they are not the same diagnosis and have different symptoms. Psychopathy is a combination of traits like a lack of emotion and empathy, plus superficial charm, that result in antisocial behavior. Psychopathy is also seen as more severe and is associated with criminal acts.^{[14]
X
Research source}
- 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 8 of 8:

Final Thoughts

Download Article

Psychopathy includes a complex set of traits that go 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.