Trigger warning : Potentially disturbing content.
There is a vast spectrum of mental disorders that exists, so calling people with any mental condition dangerous would be incorrect. However certain mental illness can make a person prone to act aggressively or violently if they don’t get proper conditioning or the right treatment.
Furthermore, psychiatric patients who are left with an untreated mental disorder often commit crime that could be assaultive or sexual. The crimes committed by psychiatric patients are also more gruesome than committed by those people who are free from any mental illness.
One such Mental Disorder is Sociopathy. Specifically, it is classified as Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) in the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
Source:- https://www.cnbc.com/2019/04/08/the-science-behind-why-so-many-successful-millionaires-are-psychopaths-and-why-it-doesnt-have-to-be-a-bad-thing.html
Individuals with ASPD may exhibit a pervasive disregard for the rights and feelings of others, as well as a lack of empathy, impulsivity, and a tendency to engage in criminal behavior. The disorder typically develops in adolescence or early adulthood and is characterized by a persistent pattern of behavior that violates social norms, rules, and laws.
A person who is suffering from antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) involving manifestation of extreme antisocial attitudes and behaviour is known as a sociopath. Such people lack empathy and remorse for their wrongdoings and feel the need to exploit and manipulate others for personal gain. Sociopaths are also know for having victim mentality when things go south for them. They will instantly drop their captivating facade and start playing the victim role to manipulate others. Studies show that a sociopath has difficulty connecting to other people, even when people like them usually. Initially they can be very charming and attractive. Their dark and intimidating person attracts people. However when people get to know them, they cut off contact with them. It’s rare for anybody to get to know or see their true selves. Sociopaths also use their captivating body language to manipulate others.
For decades, forensic psychology and investigators have worked to understand the thinking of serial killers. When it comes to sociopaths, it’s difficult to say that every sociopath is a killer. Although every sociopath has tendency to become a serial killer because they are known for their serious anger issues and impulsive behaviour. They tend to be nervous, easily agitated and are prone to emotional outbursts. For sociopaths, it’s difficult but not impossible to form a connection or attachment with others.
Research has shown that individuals with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) - a diagnosis that is characterized by a pervasive disregard for the rights of others - are more likely to engage in criminal behavior than those without the disorder. ASPD is often associated with sociopathic traits, and individuals with this disorder may exhibit a pattern of deceitfulness, impulsivity, aggressiveness, and a lack of empathy or remorse.
Studies have also shown that there may be a genetic component to ASPD, as individuals with a family history of the disorder are at an increased risk for developing it themselves. Additionally, environmental factors such as childhood trauma, abuse, and neglect may contribute to the development of ASPD.
They are capable of bonding emotionally and forming connections with others but with only certain individuals like certain family member or a friend and only in certain circumstances. Therefore they are capable of demonstrating empathy only for certain people in certain situations but not for everyone. A well known fact is that sociopathy is a result of from one’s environment. It is believed that sometimes sociopathy is a product of childhood trauma and abuse rather than being an inborn circumstances.
Crimes committed by sociopaths are often disorganized and haphazard or spontaneous. Disorganised crimes are not planned and the offenders often leave evidence such as fingerprints, hand prints, blood, etc. at the crime scene. There is usually no attempt to hide the corpse or alter the crime scene.
While not all individuals with sociopathic traits will engage in criminal behavior, the lack of empathy and disregard for the rights of others may make it easier for them to engage in illegal or harmful actions without feeling guilty or remorseful. Additionally, sociopathic traits may make it more difficult for these individuals to conform to societal norms and rules, making it more likely that they will engage in behavior that is deemed criminal.
It is important to note, however, that not all individuals who engage in criminal behavior have ASPD or sociopathic traits. There are many factors that contribute to criminal behavior, including socioeconomic factors, substance abuse, and mental health issues. Therefore, it is important to consider a range of factors when attempting to understand the connection between sociopathy and crime.
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A sociopath cannot be cured because problems lie inherently in their personality as the development of antisocial personality disorder takes place from the childhood. If the child displaying conduct issues are identified, early intervention can be put into place and modification may help reducing the risk of a child developing into a sociopath. In adulthood, therapy and professional intervention can help a person to manage and control destructive behaviors in order to maintain their personal and professional relationships.
In conclusion, there is evidence to suggest a link between sociopathy and criminal behavior, particularly in individuals with ASPD. Sociopathic traits such as a lack of empathy, impulsivity, and a disregard for the rights of others may make it easier for individuals to engage in criminal behavior without feeling guilty or remorseful.
Furthermore, it is essential to avoid stigmatizing individuals with sociopathic traits or ASPD, as many individuals with these conditions are able to live successful, law-abiding lives with proper treatment and support. It is important to approach the issue of criminality with a nuanced and multidimensional perspective, recognizing the complex interplay of individual, environmental, and societal factors that contribute to criminal behavior.
Overall, the relationship between sociopathy and criminality is a complex issue that requires further research and understanding.
Written by:- Simran Kapoor and Kashish
Edited by:- Aadya
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