Sociopath: Definition, vs. Psychopath, Test, Traits & more

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What is a sociopath?

Both the term psychopath and the term sociopath are used to describe an individual who is affected by antisocial personality disorder (ASPD).

According to the most recent edition of the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders” (DSM-5), which is used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental health conditions, ASPD is defined as a persistent disregard for rules and social norms as well as the repeated violation of the rights of other individuals.

People who have the syndrome might appear charming and captivating at first, at least on the surface, but in general, they have a hard time understanding the emotions that other people are experiencing. They frequently:

violate the rules or the law

acting belligerently or on the spur of the moment

feel little to no remorse for the harm they inflict on other people.

Employ dishonesty, deception, and behaviour that is controlling.

Although sociopathy and psychopathy are now widely used terminology in the field of mental health, neither of these conditions is recognised as an official diagnosis. It is best not to call people who display violent or manipulative behaviour “sociopaths” or “psychopaths,” as these terms carry a lot of stigmas, particularly for people who are living with personality disorders. Therefore, it is best not to describe anyone as displaying violent or manipulative behaviour.

Instead, you should concentrate on particular actions and behaviours. As an alternative to describing a controlling ex-partner as a psychopath, for instance, you may say something like, “He would regularly remind me that he was monitoring my activities on social media.”

During the 1930s, specialists began using the word “sociopathy” for the first time. Trusted Source It was much less likely to be mistaken for “psychosis” than “psychopathy,” though. In addition, the prefix indicated a widely held notion that the characteristics and behaviours associated with sociopathy are tied to socio-environmental factors. This belief was reflected in the name of the disorder.

Before the ASPD diagnosis was included in the third edition of the DSM in 1980, a number of studies treated sociopathy and psychopathy as interchangeable terms.

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What sets a sociopath apart from a psychopath, and vice versa?

There is no discernible distinction between psychopathy and sociopathy when seen from a therapeutic perspective. A professional in the field of mental health will not diagnose either of the two.

The terms “sociopathy” and “psychopathy” are sometimes used interchangeably, yet there are important differences between the two. However, these terminologies merely offer two somewhat distinct ways of comprehending the diagnostic category of ASPD.

Psychopathy is sometimes understood to involve more premeditated behaviour, according to these perspectives.

Although the behaviour may not always involve physical aggression, it is almost always deliberate.

A handful of these distinctions have been supported, at least partially, by research.

Sociopathy, as defined by Robert Hare, the psychologist who developed the Psychopathy Checklist (PCL-R), is characterised by the presence of conscience as well as a sense of right and wrong, also referred to as morality. However, this morality does not fit well with the cultural and social norms of today’s society. Sociopaths, on the other hand, frequently find ways to rationalise behaviours that they acknowledge to be “bad.”

People who suffer from sociopathy often lack empathy and have a pattern of justifying the choices they make in their daily lives. However, they are cognizant of the distinction between right and wrong.

According to Hare, psychopathy is characterised by a complete lack of morality as well as empathy.

According to research that was conducted in 2013, the distinction between psychopathy and sociopathy may be related to changes in the brain, including the volume of grey matter and the development of the amygdala. It is possible that increased neuron function in particular regions of the brain in people with sociopathy contributes to the formation of a sense of morality in these individuals.

What are the telltale symptoms that someone is a sociopath?

There is no universally accepted list of the signs that someone has sociopathy, but one of the signs and symptoms of ASPD is a consistent pattern of disrespect for other people. Take, for instance:

disregarding social standards and laws, as well as breaking regulations at school or work, crossing social boundaries, stealing, stalking and harassing other people, and destroying property are all examples of unacceptable behaviour.

dishonesty and deceit, including the use of false identities and manipulating other people for one’s own personal benefit

a lack of ability to regulate impulses and prepare for the future, as well as a tendency to act without taking the repercussions of their actions into consideration.

behaviour that is hostile or belligerent, including engaging in regular altercations or other forms of physical conflict with other people

carelessness towards either one’s own safety or the safety of others

having a hard time juggling duties, such as turning up to work, completing tasks, or paying rent and debts

small amounts, if any, of regret or remorse, as well as a propensity to excuse behaviours that negatively affect other people.

People with ASPD tend to display few emotions and have little interest in the lives of those around them. It’s possible that:

appear to be haughty or superior and to have beliefs that are firmly established.

Make advantage of your wit, intelligence, and charisma in order to exert influence.

appear to be endearing at first, but after a while, their self-interest becomes obvious.

In most cases, those who suffer from ASPD have a difficult time keeping friendships, relationships, and other ties that are mutually satisfying. This challenge may have been caused by characteristics such as:

a lack of empathetic understanding and emotional intelligence

struggle in gaining knowledge from past errors

carelessness about the well-being of other people

a propensity for intimidating and threatening people in order to keep one’s grip on power

What are the root causes of sociopathy?

Many professionals believe that sociopathy is more of a learned behaviour than it is something that is inherited.

Genes and the chemical makeup of the brain both have a role, but the primary influence comes from a person’s upbringing and the manner in which they were raised, in addition to other contextual influences. (On the other hand, it would appear that psychopathy is tied to more innate biological causes.)

Children who are not shown love and attention by their caretakers are more likely to grow up understanding that it is their responsibility to look for themselves because no one else will. Some children who are exposed to abuse, aggression, and manipulation at a young age may grow up to emulate these behaviours as they manage their own problems and find themselves in similar situations.

According to the findings of some studies, sociopathy is also something that can be “learned.” Trauma or damage to the frontal lobes of the brain, which can occur as a result of a head accident or degenerative illnesses such as dementia, can lead to various antisocial behaviours. These behaviours can be caused by individuals who are also suffering from dementia.

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How can one determine whether or not someone has sociopathy?

Again, it is important to keep in mind that the DSM-5 does not differentiate between sociopathy and psychopathy, nor does it recognise any other distinct ASPD categories.

The criteria specified by the DSM are the ones that mental health practitioners use to diagnose ASPD. This diagnosis may be given to a person whose behaviour meets the criteria for either sociopathy or psychopathy, depending on which definition is considered more appropriate.

A diagnosis of ASPD requires not only the presence of at least three of the aforementioned seven symptoms but also the fulfilment of the following additional criteria:

These habits are seen in a variety of different aspects of life.

At the very least, the individual is 18 years old.

They displayed some signs of behaviour problems before the age of 15 in their lives. This helps differentiate ASPD from delinquent behaviour that starts in adulthood.

There is no correlation between antisocial characteristics and either schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

In order to arrive at a diagnosis, a psychotherapist or therapist might:

Inquire about a person’s state of mind, thoughts, conduct, and personal relationships by asking them questions.

Inquire about the actions of family members and romantic partners (with their permission, of course).

Investigate the patient’s medical history for indications of any additional conditions.

Keep in mind that personality disorders, such as avoidant personality disorder (APSD), contain qualities that are not under the control of the individual. These traits go beyond a simple desire for personal gain and have a tendency to become more ingrained over time, which can be quite stressful.

Is it possible that this is due to a different condition?

Other mental health diseases can present with symptoms that are analogous to those of ASPD, including the following:

Outbursts of tremendous anger, both verbal and violent, are a hallmark of the condition known as intermittent explosive disorder (IED). These outbursts, which might be caused by impulse or rage, can be aimed against people, property, or animals. The onset of IED most frequently occurs during adolescence and typically occurs before the age of 40. It does not, on its own, include a lack of empathy or sorrow on the person’s part.

Conduct disorder is characterised by antisocial behaviour that usually manifests itself between the ages of 16 and 18. The presence of this ailment is regarded by specialists as one of the most important risk factors for ASPD. In order to classify adults as having ASPD, the symptoms of conduct disorder in childhood are required. Conduct disorder is a diagnosis that could be given to an individual even if they do not satisfy all of the criteria for ASPD.

Schizophrenia is characterised by difficulty identifying facial expressions of emotion, a characteristic that is also connected with ASPD. The disease could be accompanied by hostile or antisocial conduct, however, this is not always the case. In addition, it features psychosis, in contrast to ASPD, which does not. Before beginning treatment for schizophrenia, specialists won’t identify ASPD.

Bipolar I disorder. Manic episodes can be characterised by impulsivity, anger and irritability, as well as increased suicidal ideation; all of these characteristics are also associated with ASPD. During a manic episode, mental health professionals will not diagnose ASPD.

Care and assistance for those suffering from sociopathy

People who live with personality disorders don’t usually perceive any problems with their behaviour, and as a result, they frequently don’t think about receiving professional treatment.

They might decide to see a therapist if they are required to do so by a court order or if someone in their personal or professional life encourages them to do so.

People in positions of authority at work, members of the individual’s family, and romantic partners may all be in a position to see characteristics, such as impulsivity and a propensity for aggressive outbursts, and they may advocate seeking professional treatment.

Additionally, some people seek out therapy in order to address additional difficulties or issues related to their mental health, such as the following:

depression

a lack of ability to deal with monotony or pressure

substance use disorders

However, because many people who live with ASPD never make the decision to participate in therapy, there is very little data on successful treatment techniques. However, this does not mean that treatment will not be helpful. However, psychotherapy and other techniques are typically only successful when the patient voluntarily puts in the effort required.

Among other things, the following are potential therapies for ASPD:

Psychotherapy

In therapy, you will talk about your ideas and feelings with a therapist. These are the kinds of thoughts and feelings that might trigger harmful or aggressive behaviour. In addition to that, it could involve strategies for anger management or therapy for substance abuse.

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Methods such as the following could potentially be beneficial:

CBT stands for cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). People who engage in CBT can learn to become more self-aware of their reactions to the people and circumstances around them, which may result in more positive behavioural patterns. A person participating in therapy might, for instance, come to realise the advantages of resolving conflicts and disagreements through discussion rather than resorting to violence. Psychoeducation, which is a component of CBT as well, is one way in which individuals can learn more about ASPD.

Therapy that is based on mentalization (MBT). This method is designed to assist individuals in becoming more adept in recognising and comprehending mental and emotional perspectives, not just their own but also those of others. MBT was found to help reduce hostility and anger, paranoia, self-harm, and interpersonal difficulties in people living with ASPD and borderline personality disorder, in addition to leading to an overall improvement in mood. The research was conducted in 2016 and was conducted in a small setting.

Communities of care are based on democratic principles. This method, which is frequently implemented in correctional facilities, involves the formation of therapy groups of varying sizes, the purpose of which is to assist participants in reaching decisions collectively as a part of the group and in working together to address issues that are relevant to the community. People who live with ASPD may benefit from having their thinking become more community-oriented and prosocial as a result of this.

Preparedness for unforeseen events. This method utilises incentives to motivate patients to make progress during treatment. Previous research from a reliable source reveals that it may assist people who live with ASPD in reducing their consumption of alcohol and other substances.

Medication

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not given its blessing to any drugs that are intended to treat the symptoms of ASPD.

Medication may be recommended for the symptoms linked with the disease by a physician or a psychiatrist. These symptoms include:

As a first-line treatment for aggressive behaviour, antipsychotics such as risperidone (Risperdal) are typically prescribed.

Antidepressants belonging to the SSRI class, such as fluoxetine (Prozac), or mood stabilisers, such as lithium, may be helpful in the treatment of aggressive behaviour.

anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine (trade name: Tegretol), which can aid in the reduction of impulsivity.

According to the findings of a limited study from 2014

According to a Reliable Source, the antipsychotic medicine clozapine (Clozaril), which is sold under the brand name Clozaril, demonstrates some potential as a treatment for men who suffer from ASPD. All seven subjects observed a reduction in the severity of their ASPD symptoms, including irritability, impulsivity, and violent or aggressive behaviour, after taking the medicine for a period of several weeks.

How do I deal with someone who is exhibiting characteristics of sociopathy?

If you want to keep your connection with someone who has ASPD, it might be helpful to do the following:

Recognize that it’s possible they will never completely comprehend the feelings you have.

Describe in detail how their actions have an impact on other people.

Create distinct limits for yourself in order to keep your mental and physical space safe.

Encourage them to seek out the assistance of a specialist.

Counselling for marriage or the entire family can also be helpful in developing a more constructive relationship with a loved one who lives with ASPD.

In the end, they may decide not to respect your boundaries and to keep causing you to feel emotionally distressed or to be physically harmed. If this is the case, your safest choice may be to leave the connection, or at the very least, give yourself some space from it.

You can also benefit from working with a therapist on your own by:

explore fruitful communication

Develop your capacity to deal with adversity.

Find out what the indications of abuse are.

Put together a strategy that will allow you to exit a relationship in a responsible manner in the event that it becomes necessary to do so.

A therapist can also provide more specific advice on how to handle troublesome habits, such as manipulation and control strategies as well as angry outbursts.

What can one expect from their life if they have sociopathy?

Researchers and professionals in the field of personality continue to delve deeper into the complexities of sociopathy and psychopathy. However, specific diagnostic criteria for either disorder have not yet been established, and ASD is still the diagnosis that comes the closest to describing what most people understand when they hear the term “psychopathy.”

ASPD cannot be cured at this time. However, a body of data reveals that antisocial behaviour frequently shows a declining trend over time. By the time people reach middle age, they are less likely to act in a manner that is violent or hostile.

Approaches to therapy that teach people how to replace destructive habits with ones that are more constructive can also make a difference in the severity of symptoms associated with ASPD.

People who have ASPD have every opportunity to develop long-lasting and meaningful relationships with other people, despite the fact that it will take effort on their part to do so.

Conclusion

People that exhibit symptoms of sociopathy are not “bad” by choice, unlike what is commonly portrayed in the media.

ASPD is a condition that develops as a result of a mix of genetic and environmental variables, including abuse and neglect in childhood. In many situations, it is possible that they are coping with this condition.