14/06/2024
This is a long but worthwhile read and just generally good to know, but my main objective here is to ask if this sounds like anyone you know? lol, You'll probably figure it out pretty quickly.
Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterised by a combination of emotional, interpersonal, and behavioural traits that can make it incredibly difficult to recognise and deal with these individuals. Psychopaths are often charming, manipulative, and deceitful, making them skilled at masking their true intentions and manipulating those around them for their own gain.
If you suspect that you may be dealing with a psychopath, here are eight signs that can help you identify and understand their behaviour:
Acts of Great Kindness: One of the most common traits of a psychopath is their ability to switch between extreme acts of kindness and cruelty. They may display great acts of generosity and charm in order to manipulate and gain the trust of others, only to later use this trust against them for personal gain.
Confidence: Psychopaths are often extremely confident and self-assured individuals who have a natural charisma that draws others to them. They are able to exude confidence and charm in social situations, making them appear likeable and charismatic.
Lack of Empathy: One of the key traits of a psychopath is their inability to feel empathy or compassion for others. They are often unable to understand or relate to the emotions of others, leading to a lack of empathy and concern for the well-being of those around them.
No Remorse: Psychopaths often lack remorse for their actions, no matter how harmful or destructive they may be. They are able to justify their behavior and manipulate others into believing that they are not at fault for any harm they may have caused.
Manipulative: Psychopaths are skilled at manipulation and deception, using their charm and charisma to influence and control those around them. They are able to manipulate situations and people to their advantage, often without others even realising they are being used.
Impulsive and Reckless Behaviors: Psychopaths often engage in impulsive and reckless behaviours, with little regard for the consequences of their actions. They may take risks and engage in dangerous activities without considering the potential harm to themselves or others.
Callousness: Psychopaths display a lack of emotional depth or connection with others, often exhibiting a cold and callous demeanour. They may appear indifferent to the suffering of others and lack the ability to form genuine emotional attachments.
Deceitful and Dishonest: Psychopaths are often deceitful and dishonest individuals who may lie, manipulate, or deceive others for their own personal gain. They are skilled at creating false narratives and manipulating the truth to serve their own interests.
Irresponsible: Psychopaths often display a lack of responsibility for their actions, blaming others for their problems and refusing to take accountability for their behaviour. They may engage in reckless behaviours and fail to plan for the future, leading to a lack of responsibility in their personal and professional lives.
Complete Disregard for Societal Norms: Psychopaths often have a complete disregard for societal norms and rules, believing that they are above the law and can do as they please without consequences. They may engage in criminal behaviour or unethical actions without remorse or guilt.
Disregard for Others’ Safety: Psychopaths may display a lack of concern for the safety and well-being of others, putting them at risk for harm or danger. They may engage in harmful behaviours that put themselves or others in dangerous situations without considering the potential consequences.
Lacks Long-Term Goals: Psychopaths often lack long-term goals or plans for their future, living in the present moment and seeking immediate gratification. They may be impulsive and fail to consider the long-term consequences of their actions, leading to a lack of direction or purpose in their lives.
Opportunists: Psychopaths are often opportunists who are skilled at taking advantage of situations and people for their own gain. They may exploit others for personal gain and manipulate circumstances to benefit themselves without consideration for the impact on others.
*Eric's Note* This is a very simplied version of psycopathic traits as the actual diagnosis from the DSM-V-TR goes on for several pages, but still a good list to remember, especially if you live with or know a narcissist.