I love the show Criminal Minds, and they always talk about unsubs. Obviously it means perpetrator, or offender, or something, but does anyone know exactly what an unsub is? It drives me crazy every time I watch the show. Thanks!
2007-01-24 14:21:34 · 2 answers · asked by lovebluenfluff 3 in Entertainment & Music ➔ Television
Usage of the term Unknown Subject (or UnSub) is a way of dehumanizing the suspect, which helps the Profiler distance themselves emotionally allowing them to stay clear headed. Though it may not seem like much, it's the little things that help an investigative agent stay sane, especially in the various Violent Crimes units.
Furthermore, technically, the term "suspect" isn't proper, given that when constructing a Profile, the agents are speaking OF the person responsible, not someone they THINK is responsible. But because they do not know specifically who the person is, they are referred to as the UnSub.
2007-01-24 15:14:29 · answer #1 · answered by Max 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
UNknown SUBject of an Investigation
Similar to a suspect, but a suspect is an exact person (like Joe Walker, the local general store clerk), and they typically never really have an exact person in mind on Criminal Minds until the end of the show.
2007-01-24 22:29:20 · answer #2 · answered by Ultima vyse 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋