Sociopath: What it is, symptoms and treatment

A sociopath suffers from antisocial personality disorder, a mental health condition in which a person does not care much about what is right and wrong. Even if they do wrong, they don’t regret it, they don’t regret it. Deceptive, impulsive, aggressive, and an inability to conform to social norms are defining characteristics of a sociopath.

Serious sociopaths don’t even care about the law. Their behavior can be described as erratic and in some cases, they are also prone to substance and alcohol abuse. Sociopaths often face problems in their workplaces. Health Shots clinical psychologist Roshni Sodhi consults with Abby to understand who is a sociopath, and what is the treatment.

Who is a sociopath?

A person with antisocial personality disorder is often referred to as a sociopath. “A key feature of antisocial personality disorder is a disregard for and violation of the rights of others, which begins in childhood or adolescence and continues into adulthood,” explains Abby.

What is the difference between a sociopath and a psychopath?

There is not much difference between a sociopath and a psychopath. Clinically, this pattern of behavior associated with antisocial personality disorder is also referred to as psychopathy, sociopathy, or antisocial personality disorder. “However, the minor difference between the use of these terms relates to the level of adjustment in society. Furthermore, the term psychopathy is also often associated with a criminal context,” says Abby.

Also Read: Antisocial, antisocial or introverted: Is your social intolerance a sign of a problem?

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The brain may be designed differently in the two conditions. Sociopaths experience increased neuron activity in certain parts of the brain, and this affects their morals, suggests research, published Science Direct,

Signs of being a sociopath

A pattern of such behavior is characterized by the following signs:

1. Non-compliance with regulations

Sociopaths exhibit a failure to conform to social norms, particularly legitimate behaviors. Violations or violations of laws and regulations may be repeated.

2. Lack of honesty

A sense of deceit is observed in sociopaths. It manifests itself in repeated instances of lying, using aliases, or deceiving others for their personal gain or pleasure.

3. Suddenly

Sociopaths have a low level of impulsivity, with difficulty planning the consequences of their own actions.

4. Behavioral problems

Displays of irritability and aggression are common characteristics of a sociopath. This is often reflected in repeated instances of physical fights or assaults.

5. No compassion

Reckless disregard for the safety and well-being of self or others is a common characteristic of sociopaths.

6. Does not take responsibility

A lack of consistent responsibility, difficulty maintaining consistent work behavior or honoring financial obligations is seen in all sociopaths.

7. No guilt or remorse

Lack of remorse or guilt, with indifference to hurting, abusing, or stealing from another person, often trying to rationalize explanations to justify it.

What causes sociopathy?

Factors that increase a person’s risk or susceptibility to developing antisocial personality disorder include psychosocial or environmental factors stemming from their childhood. Brain chemistry as well as genes are important, but parenting styles play an important role in causing sociopathies. If a child is not properly nurtured as a child, he will grow up feeling the need to protect himself and merciless towards others as well. “However, there is no specific causal factor associated with such a personality disorder,” says Abby.

According to a study published in Frontiers in PsychologyHead trauma can also cause progressive conditions that can lead to antisocial behavior by disrupting the frontal lobes of the brain.

How is sociopathy diagnosed?

A diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder is similar to a diagnosis of any other mental illness. This requires meeting with a mental health professional, who can use standardized psychological tests along with their clinical judgment.

How to treat sociopathy?

As with most personality disorders, treatment for antisocial personality disorder has a primarily psychotherapeutic role. “These should be aimed at helping the individual identify and modify dysfunctional patterns of cognition and behavior. Additionally, medications can also help manage symptoms and behavioral patterns,” says Abby.