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Psychopath

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A person suffering from a personality disorder characterized by persistent antisocial behavior, impaired empathy and remorse, and bold, disinhibited, and egotistical traits.
2. A person who engages in behavior that violates the rights of others without remorse or guilt.
3. A term often used in popular culture to describe individuals with violent tendencies or lack of empathy, though it is technically a clinical diagnosis.

History and Origin

The term “psychopath” was first used in the early 20th century and is derived from the Greek words psyche (mind) and pathos (suffering or disease). The term has evolved over time, with its meaning shifting from a broad reference to individuals with mental disorders to a more specific diagnosis in psychology. Psychopathy, as a clinical concept, was popularized by Dr. Hervey Cleckley in the 1940s, who identified characteristics like superficial charm, lack of empathy, and impulsivity. The term is now often used interchangeably with sociopathy, though the two are distinct in some clinical frameworks.

Detailed Explanation

A psychopath is typically someone who exhibits a pattern of disregard for the rights and feelings of others, often associated with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). Psychopaths lack emotional depth and struggle with forming genuine connections. They may display traits such as superficial charm, manipulativeness, and a lack of guilt or remorse for harmful actions. Unlike sociopaths, psychopaths are often able to function effectively in society, blending in and maintaining a facade of normalcy. Psychopathy is diagnosed based on a combination of behavioral, emotional, and interpersonal traits, rather than a single event or behavior.

Example Sentences

1. The criminal psychologist identified the suspect as a psychopath due to his lack of remorse for his actions.
2. Psychopaths can sometimes appear charming and charismatic, making it difficult to recognize their true nature.
3. His manipulative behavior and inability to form genuine emotional connections indicated that he might be a psychopath.
4. The film portrayed the villain as a psychopath who felt no guilt after committing violent crimes.
5. She was diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder, with traits that aligned closely with psychopathy.
6. Psychopaths are often skilled at hiding their true intentions, making them dangerous in certain situations.
7. The serial killer’s behavior and lack of empathy pointed to psychopathy rather than a more common mental illness.
8. Many psychopaths do not seek treatment, as they often feel no need to change their behavior.
9. The organization was shocked when it was revealed that one of its top executives was a psychopath.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Sociopath – A person with antisocial personality traits, though often more prone to impulsive behavior and emotional outbursts compared to a psychopath.
2. Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) – A clinical condition marked by a disregard for the rights of others, which overlaps with psychopathy in some cases.
3. Narcissist – Someone with an inflated sense of self-importance, though unlike a psychopath, narcissists may have some emotional connections, such as to their image.
4. Psychotic – Someone suffering from psychosis, a mental state where thoughts and perceptions are disconnected from reality, though not synonymous with psychopathy.
5. Manipulator – A person who influences others in a deceitful or controlling way, a trait common in psychopaths.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Antisocial – Describes behavior that harms or lacks consideration for others, often associated with psychopathy and sociopathy.
2. Narcissism – A pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy, often seen in psychopathic individuals.
3. Charm – Superficial appeal or attractiveness, commonly used by psychopaths to manipulate others.
4. Deceit – Dishonesty or misrepresentation, a trait often employed by psychopaths in achieving their goals.
5. Cold-hearted – Lacking empathy or compassion, a common descriptor of psychopathic behavior.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Malice – The desire to cause harm or pain, often a characteristic of psychopathy.
2. Exploitative – Taking advantage of others without concern, a behavior exhibited by psychopaths.
3. Impulsive – Acting without thinking, often seen in psychopaths, though they may also be strategic in their manipulations.
4. Predatory – Describing someone who exploits others, often used in reference to psychopaths, especially in criminal contexts.
5. Callous – Showing a lack of concern for the feelings or suffering of others, a common trait in psychopaths.

Antonyms

1. Empathetic
2. Compassionate
3. Altruistic
4. Caring
5. Considerate