Definition and Characteristics of a Psychopath

Characteristics, Signs and Symptoms of a Psychopath

“Psychopaths are generally viewed as aggressive, insensitive, charismatic, irresponsible, intelligent, dangerous, hedonistic, narcissistic and antisocial. These are persons who can masterfully explain another person's problems and what must be done to overcome them, but who appear to have little or no insight into their own lives or how to correct their own problems.

Those psychopaths who can articulate solutions for their own personal problems usually fail to follow them through. Psychopaths are perceived as exceptional manipulators capable of feigning emotions in order to carry out their personal agendas.

Without remorse for the plight of their victims, they are adept at rationalization, projection, and other psychological defense mechanisms. The veneer of stability, friendliness, and normality belies a deeply disturbed personality. Outwardly there appears to be nothing abnormal about their personalities, even their behavior.

They are careful to maintain social distance and share intimacy only with those whom they can psychologically control. They are noted for their inability to maintain long-term commitments to people or programs.”― Eric W. Hickey, Forensic Psychologist

“The 16 characteristics of psychopaths:

Intelligent

Rational

Calm

Unreliable

Insincere

Without shame or remorse

Having poor judgment

Without capacity for love

Unemotional

Poor insight

Indifferent to the trust or kindness of others

Overreactive to alcohol

Suicidal

Impersonal sex life

Lacking long-term goals

Inadequately motivated antisocial behavior”

― Hervey M. Cleckley, The Mask of Sanity

Warning Signs you’re Dealing with a Psychopath

Defining traits of a Psychopath, according to a Researcher who Studies them Insider

What is a psychopath? Healthline

Characteristics of the Modern Psychopath Psychology Today

Psychopathy & Aggression: When Paralimbic Dysfunction Leads to Violence PMC

Signs of a Psychopath: Traits & Characteristics Choosing Therapy

Signs of Psychopathy in Kids Verywell Family

The Empathic Brain of Psychopaths: From Social Science to Neuroscience in Empathy
Frontiers in Psychology

Twenty Warning Signs: You may be dealing with a Psychopath Personal Growth Counseling

Warning Signs you’re Dealing with a Psychopath CBT Psychology

What is a psychopath? Healthline

Psychopathy / Psychopath Book Mentions

The Mark of Cain : Psychoanalytic Insight and the Psychopath

J. Reid Meloy

The Mask of Sanity: An Attempt to Clarify Some Issues About the So Called Psychopathic Personality Hervey M. Cleckley

The Psychopath Inside: A Neuroscientist's Personal Journey into the Dark Side of the Brain
James Fallon

The Psychopath Whisperer: The Science of Those Without Conscience
Kent A. Kiehl PH. D

Violence and Psychopathy

Robert D. Hare (auth.) & Adrian Raine & José Sanmartín (eds.)

Without Conscience : The Disturbing World of the Psychopaths Among Us

Robert D. Hare PH.D.

Signs You're Dealing With a Psychopath - Video

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