Final answer:
The PBS report on mass killers' risk factors lists many but does not empirically support Asperger's as a risk factor; typically, issues like weapon preoccupation, substance abuse, and mental health problems are linked to such violence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The PBS report on mental illness and its associated risk factors for rampage mass killers lists several factors, but there is no empirical evidence to directly link Asperger's syndrome as a risk factor. Factors typically identified include a preoccupation with weapons, substance abuse, desire for fame, and paranoia and hostility. Asperger's syndrome, however, is not mentioned as a risk factor in the report. It is important to note that not all individuals with Asperger's syndrome develop violent tendencies, and having the syndrome does not automatically make someone a mass killer.
A youthful male demographic is often associated with such incidents, but Asperger's is not a scientifically supported risk factor for these types of violent behaviors. Studies show a stronger correlation between aggressive behavior and factors like mental health issues, substance abuse, and environmental influences such as media violence and familial or socioeconomic backgrounds.