IMO, the only difference netween the 10 yr old doing what they did and an adult doing the same thing is that the adult would possibly think ahead in terms of the police investigation, trial and legal aspects, possibly try to make up an allibi, etc.
The adult would (or should) also think of himself as a member of society, and think in terms of his responsibility to society. A 10 year old is unlikely to think that way.
They showed pre-meditation, callousness and a sadistic streak.
That doesn't sound much different from any other 10 year old boy. They took it to extremes where most 10 year olds wouldn't.
there are 10-yr olds out there who consciously enjoy inflicting pain and suffering to others.
I had to deal with some of those 10 year olds when I was in elementary school. As I recall, I used to hang around a small group of friends and avoid being in the schoolyard alone, so as to not give them an opportunity.
You are describing what is actually somewhat common among 10 year olds. At that age, they haven't been fully socialized yet. There is still some of the wild jungle beast in them.
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