In this episode, we delve into the mind of one of history's most enigmatic figures, Charles Manson. Guided by the expertise of my guest, Aaliyah Booker, a criminal justice major at Penn State Beaver, we navigate Manson's formative years and dissect the psychological entanglements that led him to the Tate-LaBianca murders in 1969.

We discuss the chilling details of that fateful night at Cielo Drive, Manson's foiled musical ambitions, and how a thirst for recognition may have kindled the flames of violence. The conversation takes us through the murky waters of Manson's objectives, pondering the role of chance versus intent in the selection of his victims, and how his followers' blind loyalty culminated in a legacy of bloodshed and horror.

Finally, we explore the mechanisms of control and influence that define cult leaders like Manson. With Aaliyah's perspective guiding the discussion, we examine the connection between a leader's quest for structure and the design of prison life, alongside the tale of Manson's need for belonging, as evidenced by his correspondence with the Moundsville State Penitentiary. Join us for this exploration of a man whose legacy continues to stir both fascination and revulsion.

A psych professor's podcast about danger, deception, and desire

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In this episode, Dr. Bennett explores the fascinating topic of serial killers. Listen to him discuss his top 10 myths about serial homicide.

A psych professor's podcast about danger, deception, and desire

Podcast Buzzsprout: https://kevinbennettissnarling.buzzsp...
Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KevinBennettisSnarling
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In this episode, Dr. Bennett discusses the exuberant and sometimes dangerous psychology of thrill seeking, a personality trait also known as risk taking and sensation seeking.

Take this test to see if you are high or low on this personality dimension. For each item, you must choose A or B, depending on which best describes you.
1a. I would like a job that requires a lot of traveling.
1b. I would prefer a job in one location.

2a. I am invigorated by a brisk, cold day.
2b. I can’t wait to go inside on a cold day.

3a. I get bored seeing the same old faces.
3b. I like the comfortable familiarity of everyday friends.

4a. I would prefer living in an ideal society in which everyone is safe secure, & happy.
4b. I would have preferred living in the unsettled days of our history.

5a. I sometimes like to do things that are a little bit frightening.
5b. A sensible person avoids activities that are dangerous.

6a. I would not like to be hypnotized.
6b. I would like to have the experience of being hypnotized.

7a. The most important goal in life is to live it to the fullest and experience as much as possible.
7b. The most important goal in life is to find peace and happiness.

8a. I would like to try parachute-jumping.
8b. I would not like to try jumping out of an airplane, with or without a parachute.

9a. I enter cold water gradually, giving myself time to get used to it.
9b. I like to dive or jump right into the ocean or a cold pool.

10a. When I go on vacation, I prefer the comfort of a good room and bed.
10b. When I go on vacation, I prefer the change of camping out.

11a. I prefer people who are emotionally expressive even if they are a bit unstable.
11b. I prefer people who are calm and even tempered.

12a. A good painting should shock or jolt the senses.
12b. A good painting should give one a feeling of peace and security.

13a. People who ride motorcycles must have some kind of unconscious need to hurt themselves.
13b. I would like to drive or ride a motorcycle.

Give yourself 1 point for each of these that you have circled: 1a, 2a, 3a, 4b, 5a, 6b, 7a, 8a, 9b, 10b, 11a, 12a, 13b

A psych professor's podcast about danger, deception, and desire

Podcast Buzzsprout: https://kevinbennettissnarling.buzzsp...
Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KevinBennettisSnarling
Psychology Today Writing: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/...
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