[s7e22] Profiling 101 Apr 2026

: Mackenzie Astin as Thomas Yates and Zack Weinstein.

: Fans have noted that some "mugshots" shown during the presentation are actually photos of the show's crew members used as props. [S7E22] Profiling 101

is the 22nd episode of the seventh season of the long-running police procedural series Criminal Minds . Aired in 2012, it is widely regarded by fans as a unique "teaching" episode that explores the history of the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) and one of its longest-running cases. Episode Overview : Mackenzie Astin as Thomas Yates and Zack Weinstein

: This case highlights the personal toll and long-term commitment required of profilers, as Rossi visits Yates annually to recover the "lost" victims for their families. Key Profiling Lessons Taught Aired in 2012, it is widely regarded by

: Analyzing the victims to understand why the killer chose them.

: Distinguishing between the functional way a crime is committed (Modus Operandi) and the psychological need the killer satisfies through specific rituals (Signature).

Throughout the lecture, the team breaks down the science of profiling for the students: