A Fresh Look at the Muddy Waters of Psychopathy

Abstract

Contrary to traditional psychological definitions, psychopathic behavior is neither self-defeating nor contradictory. Once the psychopath's total self-absorption and need to exploit and humiliate others is recognized, many of the contradictory characteristics of the personality fall into logical place. Primary psychopaths exhibit strong self-serving motives and an insatiable need to prove superiority over anyone and everyone. Compulsive lying and flaunting of established rules are consistent with the psychopaths' view of their special position within various social/business constellations. This unique position is validated and measured by their abilities to violate successfully established boundaries without reprisal and to convince and manipulate others to do what they want or believe what they say. Far from being aimless and impulsive, the psychopath's behavior is completely goal-directed.