What is a psychopath? Do you know a psychopathic person, or are you one? Studies have shed light on psychopathic traits and how the condition may develop. About 1% of the population qualifies as a psychopath; however, the percentage is much higher among company chief executives (21%), and the prison population (25%).
In the 1970s, Robert Hare developed the PCL-R, which is a diagnostic criterion for psychopathy. Since then, experts have used the PCL-R to assess whether an individual is exhibiting any psychopathic traits.
PCL-R Scores
From Hare’s 20-item checklist, the prototypical psychopath would make a maximum score of 40, while someone with no psychopathic tendencies would get a score of 0. Many criminals score between 22 and 30; therefore, someone with a score of 30 or more would qualify for further assessment and indications of psychopathy.
Psychopathy is a spectrum disorder. At some point in our lives, we all exhibited some of the traits. While a genetic predisposition may be essential for a person to exhibit characteristics of psychopathy, some other factors could also cause the disorder. These factors include extreme trauma, physical or mental abuse, and rejection by loved ones. Not all people who match the PCL-R criteria are murderous psychopaths; many of them are successful and professional. So, it doesn’t mean you’re dangerous if you score a high PCL-R score.
Psychopaths are common. How can you spot a psychopath? Below is a list of psychopathic traits from the PCL-R.
Psychopathic Traits:
- Glib and superficial charm, which can also be a positive characteristic depending on the person’s mindset. Genuine interest or empathy does not motivate this trait for others, and it allows psychopaths to charm and manipulate their way around, from romantic partners to co-workers. To those with this trait, gaslighting may be a favored strategy. Gaslighting is when one manages to lead others to question their actions and beliefs.
- An enormous sense of self-worth, a profound sense of confidence, or self-belief. These traits may explain why so many psychopaths are thriving in the world of business. However, psychopaths tend to make themselves look better by stepping on and belittling those around them and may also be pathological liars. So, beware of any narcissists trying to make you their friend.
- A lack of remorse or guilt.
- Callousness.
- A parasitic lifestyle.
- Promiscuous sexual behavior.
- Risk takers and those less likely to feel fear.
- Poor behavioral control, which is likely linked to psychopaths’ history of juvenile delinquency.
- Outbursts of antisocial behavior.
Based on the traits above, the question is, are you a psychopath? And if so, how do you intend to use these traits and skills?
