Identification of Violent Fantasies in Computer-Based Content (In: Suicide and Law Enforcement, edited by D C Sheehan & J I Warren)

This chapter suggests that the violent video games written by Eric Harris (one of the Columbine High School shooters) represented an externalization of his mindset. Computer games allow for the creation of individual scenarios & a self-destructive game may be created. Access to these scenarios may prevent suicidal or violent behaviour. They may be profiled similar to crime scenes. Psychology & law enforcement can use these games to understand the fantasies &, therefore, the mind of the perpetrator. Analysis of Harris’s computer games will demonstrate fantasies suggesting possible psychological motives for his self-destructive behaviour. JA