Final answer:
The correct statement is that female serial killers tend to kill over a longer period of time than men. Geographic profiling helps predict criminal behavior by identifying spatial patterns, considering distance decay. Crime patterns reflect societal norms, particularly in intimate partner violence cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the statements provided, option (a) is correct: Female serial killers tend to kill over a longer period of time than their male counterparts. This phenomenon has been observed in various studies and can be associated with different methodologies that female serial killers use, which are often less violent and more covert than those of male serial killers, allowing them to avoid detection for longer periods of time.
Geographic profiling is a vital tool in understanding and predicting patterns of criminal behavior, including serial offenses. Analysts use this technique to identify spatial patterns and predict where an offender is likely to commit additional crimes. But serial offenders typically avoid committing crimes very close to their residence to reduce the likelihood of being recognized, based on the principle of distance decay.
The spatial pattern of crime also shows a correlation with societal patterns and norms, particularly in cases of intimate partner violence. Understanding these patterns can provide insights into gender roles and inequalities within societies.