Why Are People Attracted to Felons?

From the infamous "groupies" of high-profile serial killers to the everyday romanticization of the "bad boy" trope, the phenomenon of being attracted to people who commit crimes is as perplexing as it is common. Why do some individuals actively seek out romantic relationships with incarcerated felons? Is it a biological imperative, a psychological trauma response, or a byproduct of our true-crime-obsessed media culture?

In this captivating and objective course, we will pull back the curtain on hybristophilia—the sexual or romantic attraction to those who have committed crimes. Moving beyond judgment and sensationalism, this course grounds this fascinating human behavior in established psychology, sociology, and evolutionary science.

Whether you are a psychology student, a true crime enthusiast, a writer looking to build complex characters, or simply someone fascinated by the darker corners of human nature, this course will challenge your preconceptions and provide clear, scientific frameworks for understanding taboo attractions.