Affinity fraud: do psychopaths target specific groups of people?

Individuals with psychopathic traits are often attracted to affinity groups – religious, political or social groups of people who share common values, beliefs or interests.  The collective trust that members of these groups have in one another and their common belief system provides a perfect cover for the person with psychopathy.  The psychopath has an … Read more

How do psychopathic individuals choose their victims?

Many individuals with psychopathic features are opportunists who seek to take whatever they can from those around them, viewing others as merely a source of “supply.”  If they detect something in someone they find interesting or that can help them achieve their agenda in some way, that person has the potential to become a victim.  … Read more

Can children be identified as psychopathic? Can adolescents be identified as psychopathic?

Several researchers have examined qualities in children and adolescents that serve to differentiate psychopathic youth from their peers.  Frick posited that children who exhibit both conduct problems and callous/unemotional traits are most similar to adult psychopaths (Frick & Marsee, 2006).  Research findings by Lynam (1996) identified a subset of children with both conduct problems and … Read more

Are they (psychopaths) aware of their condition?

Remarkably little is known about the extent to which psychopathic individuals are aware of their condition (have insight). There are cases in which psychopathic individuals have reported that they are psychopathic or sociopathic and have even rattled off a list of core features of psychopathy. However, classical clinical descriptions of psychopathic individuals emphasize their lack … Read more