Sociopaths are often called psychopaths and vice versa but there are differences between a psychopath and a sociopath. Psychopaths, for example, are far more likely to get in trouble with the law while sociopaths are much more likely to blend in with society. And while sociopaths and psychopaths do share some traits, sociopathy (antisocial personality disorder) is generally considered less severe than psychopathy. What Is A Sociopath? A sociopath is actually a person with antisocial personality disorder. Antisocial personality disorder is defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (the book which contains the diagnostic criteria for mental illnesses) as a cluster B personality disorder (those that are dramatic or emotional). While sociopathy can only be diagnosed at the age of 18 or above, the following must be present before the age of 15 for the diagnosis: ★ Repeated violations of the law ★ Pervasive lying and deception ★ Physical aggressiveness ★ Reckless disregard for the safety of self or others ★ Consistent irresponsibility in work and family environments ★ Lack of remorse ★ Psychopath vs. Sociopath ★ Psychopathy can be thought of as a more severe form of sociopathy with more symptoms. Therefore, all psychopaths are sociopaths but sociopaths are not necessarily psychopaths. According to the Society for the Study of Psychopathy, psychopath traits include: ★ Lack of guilt/remorse ★ Lack of empathy ★ Lack of deep emotional attachments ★ Narcissism ★ Superficial charm ★ Dishonesty ★ Manipulativeness ★ Reckless risk-taking ★ Moreover, approximately 93% of psychopaths are in the criminal justice system. The Difference Between A Psychopath & Sociopath: While the traits of each may seem similar, it is thought that sociopaths have a less severe form of lack of empathy and lack of guilt. It is thought that sociopaths may be able to form some deep bonds (such as, possibly, with family) while a psychopath cannot. While a sociopath would feel no guilt about hurting a stranger, they may feel guilt and remorse over hurting someone with which they share a bond. Additionally, it appears that some of the very antisocial behavior in sociopaths lessens over time while this cannot be said of psychopaths. Psychopaths appear to have no concern whatsoever of the consequences, while a sociopath may learn to avoid consequences over time by reducing antisocial behavior.
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