The difference between a Psychopath and Sociopath
Psychopath … This disorder was first defined and named ~1800 (in France, I believe) and has had its definition revised many times since.
Sociopath … A category of social disorders first defined 1980~1983, and has also been further defined.
One can also find that the term “psychopath” is no longer in use, and was replaced by “sociopath.”
On the other hand, “psychopath” can still be found in use by other reputable sources. So, if and when (i.e., until) a clear delineation is fully adopted, the following seems to be
A psychopath will use violence — even murder — if they consider it necessary to protect their persona, or simply to fulfill that part of their dementia.
A sociopath would not be driven to physical violence. Technically, though, I consider there to be little-to-no difference between the two, other than time.
A psychopath would have likely been defined as a sociopath before being caught for heinous acts. A sociopath, I believe, could well be driven to hostility based on what they are willing to risk if their activities bordered on becoming public.
Therefore, extreme physical violence clearly separates the two. But, they have much more in common, than in difference.
What does not separate the two?
• Both will break the law if they consider it necessary.
• Both will go on the offensive to avoid going on the defensive.
• Both will fit in with society, beautifully (maybe too beautifully) by using a public persona.
• Both manipulate and use people for their own selfish, immoral, and illegal activities.
• Neither will allow anyone to get in their way, and will destroy anyone they suspect, even if that other person is family.
• Some are paid millions-per-year because of the ice-cold blood running through their veins.
There’s a reason I began this with a history lesson.
If you look between the lines above (metaphorically speaking), do you see anything that could also be part of the answer?
What I saw raised a very clear question. What did I see?
How about this: After recognizing the psychopath, what caused the delay of 180-years before the same was accomplished for the sociopath?
My theoretical answer: It underscores just how difficult it is to recognize and identify a sociopath. The clinical experts, themselves, were unable to recognize the sociopath for 3-4 more generations after their predecessors identified the psychopath.
Therefore, another noteworthy difference: a psychopath may be more dangerous, but
Keep in mind, there are potentially 10-100 times the number of sociopaths as there are psychopaths. That’s a wild guesstimate, but that’s all anyone can muster.
A true Psychopath.
Conclusion :: The Difference.
The primary difference, that which will affect the most people, is that
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Related Posts:
A family of sociopaths :: Part 1
Protect yourself from any sociopath.
Sociopaths are all the same … right?
What makes a sociopath so dangerous?
Psychopath/Sociopath: Similarities Outweigh Differences
Discovering Your Best Friend is a Sociopath
How do you spot a sociopath?
Identifying a Sociopath
AUDIO: Evidence from Recorded Phone Calls
Do School Administrators Help Young Sociopaths?
September 29th, 2009 at 22:20
Nice post, unfortunately I was married to a sociopath…you speak the truth!
September 30th, 2009 at 00:32
I, too, was married to a sociopath (I refer to her as a Master Manipulator), and I recently discovered that my oldest sister is also a sociopath, as is my younger brother.
My sister was brutally hostile to me growing up, and now, 50 years later, I know why. Not just the fact that she’s a sociopath, but what part of that caused her to be brutal to me, and no other sibling. It will be posted soon.
December 26th, 2009 at 08:25
I’m still using term “psychopath”
,
I did have an experience with a corporate psychopath … they don’t use a gun/knife to destroy a life, but they’re giving their worst with what they have.
December 27th, 2009 at 03:54
You are correct, Lidija. They may not use weapons made of steel, but their weapon of evil can lead to a slow, lonely and painful death.
Thanks for your thoughts here, as well as the private comment you sent. It helps to communicate with those who know from personal experience. No one can understand without experience.
December 31st, 2011 at 18:59
I appreciate this exploration into defining sociopaths and psychopaths.The one thing that I see that wasn’t mentioned here was both types are sexually motivated and that Jeffery Dahmer mentioned here is Gay not Straight! Sexuality my opinion is the determining factor!
December 31st, 2011 at 23:11
John,
In over 40 years of definitive clinical research, there’s no data that corroborates your “sexuality” opinion. I think it’s safe to say your thoughts are completely incorrect and misguided.