A sociopath is a word that is often used in social settings for describing someone who lacks empathy. However, this is the incorrect use of the phrase. Real sociopaths have to be diagnosed with ASPD or antisocial personality disorder.
However, you might be surprised to know that there is a possibility that one in five of us is a sociopath. But who is really a sociopath?
To be classified as a sociopath or be diagnosed with ASPD, you have to show at least 3 of the 7 characteristics stated by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. A few of these characteristics are lack of remorse, empathy, and disregard for other people.
But this is not all. A person needs to be a minimum of 18 years of age and have a history of behavioral problems by the time they are 15 years old in order to be diagnosed. Moreover, there has to be proof that these behavioral problems aren’t happening while they are intoxicated by some substance or experience a bipolar episode.
Signs of a Sociopath
The signs of a sociopath might vary from one person to the other. But the symptoms of one person might change over time. As you read through these signs, you have to remember that humans show this type of behavior time and again, especially when they are upset. So, not always are they a sign of ASPD.
Here are some common signs of someone having ASPD.
Lack of Empathy
One of the primary symptoms of ASPD is lacking empathy. So, the person’s response to someone’s feeling might come across as:
- Unfeeling
- Harsh
- Cold
- Overly critical
These people do not always realize that their actions can be harmful. In certain cases, they might not even care that what they do might hurt someone.
Impulsive
Sure, there are many who are impulsive. Often, you might find yourself deciding on an impulsive road trip or a new hairstyle. Some people bet on online casino games to have some fun. However, being impulsive is never good. Often, this causes them to sign up for a fraudulent online casino. So, it is always better to check the reviews of a site before registering. For instance, if a question like “Is Betway safe to register?” bothers you, make sure you read the Betway casino Canada review. This will give you an idea of how the site works. Also, if the site is a scam, you will get to know from the review.
Manipulative
Often, sociopaths tend to seduce others and then ingratiate themselves for their own benefit. At times, they even do it for the purpose of entertainment. However, this doesn’t mean that they are charismatic. In certain cases, this might be true, but it is often said that sociopaths can be quite charming.
They tend to use flattery, humor, flirtation, and intellect for their personal gain. At times, they might use these to make someone do something that is harmful to the person.
Disregard for Wrong and Right
People who have ASPD usually do not have any regard for boundaries, laws, or rules. So, sociopaths might:
- Cheat
- Lie
- Break laws
- Be in legal trouble constantly
- Steal from other people
When they disregard wrong or right, they don’t usually consider the consequences of their action, short or long term.
Aggression
Sociopaths are often verbally and physically abusive. They might harm people physically without even taking into account the injuries they might cause others.
Verbal abuses include:
- Negativity
- Insults
- Private or public humiliation
- Negative statements
Deceitful, Callous, and Hostile
Sociopaths tend to be deceitful and dishonest. Often, they feel confident lying about things to get their own way. They also lie in order to get out of trouble. People with ASPD try to embellish the truth if that suits them.
These people tend to be callous about the feelings of others. Sociopaths are not only hostile to themselves but also take the behavior of other people as hostile. This causes them to seek revenge.
Who Requires a Diagnose?
Usually, kids are not diagnosed with ASPD disorders as the development stages of childhood tend to mimic some of the behaviors mentioned above. The personalities of children keep changing. But, if you notice a warning sign in a kid early on, a conduct disorder needs to be diagnosed.
When a teenager is displaying uncontrolled symptoms, such as harming animals, stealing, or lying constantly, they need to be diagnosed. Also, people having a family history of personality and behavioral disorder or people who have experienced abuse are more likely to turn into sociopaths. Studies have shown that men are more likely to become sociopaths in comparison to women.
Sociopaths abuse their children, spouse, or partners. As they engage in criminal activities, they might also spend time in jail. They are aggressive, and this can put them at risk.
