7 Characteristics of the Modern Psychopath

7 Characteristics of the Modern Psychopath (from Psychology Today)

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) IV-TR. American Psychiatric Association. (2000):

1. Pathological Lying and Manipulation

2. Lack of Morality and Rule Breaking

3. Lack of Empathy and Cold-Heartedness

4. Narcissism and False Superiority Complex

5. Gaslighting and Psychological Bullying

6. Lack of Contrition and Self-Serving Victimhood

7. The “Situational” Sociopath or Psychopath

Perhaps one of the most insidious forms of anti-social personality disorder is what may be termed “situational sociopathy or psychopathy,” where an individual extends cordiality, respect, and regard towards some, but exhibits inhumanity, harshness, and cruelty towards others. Targets of situational sociopathy or psychopathy are usually individuals or groups considered to be “other,” “lesser,” or “weaker,” and may be based on factors such as gender, class, race, sexual orientation, social standing, societal afflictions, etc. This “sociopathic splitting” views some people as fully human, and others as objects, commodities, and less human. Situational sociopathy or psychopathy contributes to many unjust conditions, such as misogyny, class bigotry, racism, homophobia, religious intolerance, extreme poverty, and structural violence in society.