What is a Psychopath? Here's an Explanation of the Meaning, Causes, and Characteristics

Kapanlagi.com - Psychopath may be a term that is not unfamiliar to the general public. The term psychopath often appears in a movie or book that tells about violence, even sadism. Therefore, in society, the term psychopath has a negative connotation. But, what is a psychopath actually?

The term psychopath has become increasingly popular through movies, books, and even articles or news. Although it is already considered a fairly common term, many people still do not understand what a psychopath is? In movies, psychopaths are often associated with someone who has socially deviant and psychological behavior, thus acting harsh and even sadistic.

To know more deeply, what is a psychopath? Check out the following review, which has been summarized by kapanlagi.com from various sources.

1. Understanding What Psychopathy Is?

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As mentioned earlier, psychopathy is already classified as a fairly common term in society. However, the use of the term psychopath is still limited and not frequently used in everyday life. Therefore, it is understandable that many people do not understand the true meaning of what psychopathy is.

In the Indonesian Dictionary (KBBI), psychopath is defined as someone who, due to a mental disorder, exhibits deviant behavior and experiences difficulties in socializing. This explanation is in line with what is stated on the website klikdokter.com, that in the medical world, psychopathy is better known as an antisocial personality characterized by a lack of empathy and a habit of breaking rules.

As reported by klikdokter.com, psychopathic disorders make it difficult for someone to establish harmonious relationships with others and their environment. Furthermore, psychopathy is classified as a type B personality disorder. This group of personality disorders is often characterized by emotional behavior, sometimes accompanied by violent acts that can disrupt their relationships with others.
That is why, in its development, psychopathy is often associated with criminal acts, even sadism.

2. Causes of Psychopathy

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People with psychopathic disorders do indeed seem frightening and need to be cautious. Moreover, until now, the exact causes of psychopathy are still unknown. The lack of information about what psychopathy is also greatly limits public knowledge of this personality disorder.

Although still uncertain, there are several things that are suspected to be the causes of psychopathy. Starting from genetic factors or family lineage, social environmental factors, to socio-cultural factors.

In addition, the presence of a history or traumatic psychological experiences in childhood is also believed to trigger psychopathic disorders. Furthermore, external factors such as dependence on alcohol and narcotics are also believed to increase the risk of psychopathic disorders.

3. Characteristics of Psychopaths

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Psychopaths have become quite popular among society through movies, books, and various other types of media. Through these mediums, the image of what a psychopath is in society is formed, including the characteristics of psychopathic disorders. Reported from klikdokter.com, here are some characteristics of psychopaths.

1.Impulsive Behavior
One characteristic of a psychopathic disorder is behavior that tends to be impulsive. Even the impulsive behavior of a psychopath can be done recklessly without considering the consequences afterwards. This is what then causes individuals with psychopathic disorders to have relative difficulty in controlling their behavior.

2.Tendency to Lie
Another characteristic of a psychopathic disorder is a tendency to lie. At a glance, lying may indeed be a negative behavior that can be done by anyone. However, a psychopath can lie just for personal satisfaction or pleasure. Unlike ordinary people who often lie with specific motives or goals.

3. Lack of Empathy
People with psychopathic disorders can also be seen from their difficulty in showing empathy. A psychopath may not be moved or touched at all when they see humans, animals, or other living beings suffering.

4. Likes to Break Rules
A psychopathic patient also tends to be difficult and dislike being controlled. This can be seen from the behavior of psychopathic patients who have difficulty obeying rules. They easily feel bored and confined by rules. Therefore, they do not hesitate to commit violations, even fatal ones, just to test their own adrenaline.

5. Changing Personality
Another characteristic of psychopathic disorder patients is their unpredictable personality. A person with a psychopathic disorder tends to experience rapid changes in personality. They are like chameleons who easily change their personality depending on the situation and the person they are facing.

6. Excessive Self-Confidence and Enjoy Being the Center of Attention
Compared to ordinary people, a person with a psychopathic disorder also tends to prefer being the center of attention. This is in line with their excessive self-confidence. Psychopaths often feel superior to others.

That is among the reviews about what a psychopath is. Hopefully, it is useful and can increase knowledge!

(kpl/psp)