Recently, I have heard the two words psychopath and sociopath being tossed around in the media. Theses two words have also been in Hollywood productions as well other forms of popular culture. Now, when any of these two words are being said, it is usually as a joke, but for those of you nerds out there, I have something to share. There is a distinct difference between a psychopath and a sociopath.
According to the fifth volume of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM-5), a psychopath is under the category of antisocial personality disorder, this person will usually have three or more of the following attributes:
- Regularly breaks or flouts the la:
- Constantly lies and deceives others
- Is impulsive and doesn’t plan ahead
- Can be prone to fighting and aggressiveness
- Has little regard for the safety of others
- Irresponsible, can’t meet financial obligations
- Doesn’t feel remorse or guilt
These traits usually come full circle once the person has reached puberty. Psychologists tend to believe that psychopaths are born and not made. Psychopaths tend to have a hard time creating emotional attachments, they have shallow relationships only for manipulation, can be seen as charming and trustworthy. Psychopaths are usually very careful and ensure there is minimal risk when breaking the law. The scary part about psychopaths is that the blend into the norms of society, so it makes spotting almost impossible. Pop culture psychopath:
Dexter Morgan (Dexter)
In the case of sociopaths, they are also considered to have antisocial personality disorder. I am assuming that is where the confusion may appear, but there are differences. Sociopaths are usually more impulsive and erratic. There is a better chance for sociopaths to form emotional attachments, but it is usually for other sociopaths. They are quicker to become upset and angry. Their spasmodic behavior is what makes them easier to catch. Pop culture sociopaths:
Sweeny Todd
Who’s More Dangerous?
In my honest opinion, I would say psychopaths are more dangerous. They are more controlled and reserved. This allows them to stay under the radar for as long as possible. They also are better at emotionally disconnecting themselves. This makes reasoning with them almost impossible.
