Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by a series of traits and behaviors that have serious implications in the lives of those who suffer from it and the people around them. Dr. Hervey Cleckley, an American psychiatrist, conducted an extensive study of psychopathy in the 1940s and described a series of diagnostic criteria that are still used today to identify this personality disorder.
Cleckley's diagnostic criteria for psychopathy
Hervey Cleckley is known for his influential book "The Mask of Sanity" published in 1941, where he outlined the notion of psychopathy and presented a series of diagnostic criteria that helped identify individuals with this personality disorder. These criteria, although they have been reviewed and modified over time, remain fundamental in the evaluation of psychopathy.
Emotional superficiality and superficial charm
One of the first criteria described by Cleckley It is the emotional superficiality of psychopaths. These people often display superficial charm and an ability to manipulate others thanks to their lack of empathy and ability to simulate emotions. They may be charismatic and persuasive, but in reality they lack a true emotional connection with others.
Grandiosity and arrogance
Psychopathic individuals tend to have a grandiose view of themselves and appear arrogant. in his behavior. They tend to exaggerate their achievements and abilities, constantly seeking admiration and recognition from others. This feeling of superiority can lead them to belittle others and behave in a contemptuous manner towards those they consider inferior.
Pathological lying
Another important criterion in the description of psychopathy according to Cleckley is the tendency of these individuals to lie pathologically. Psychopaths can lie easily and without remorse, building a network of deception to manipulate others and get what they want. Their lack of attachment to the truth allows them to create a false image of themselves and their intentions.
Lack of remorse or guilt
The inability to experience remorse or guilt is another of the criteria highlighted by Cleckley in his description of psychopathy. Psychopathic individuals are indifferent to the negative consequences of their actions on others and show no remorse for the harm they may cause. This lack of moral awareness allows them to act in selfish and manipulative ways without experiencing emotions of guilt.
Irresponsible behavior
The tendency toward irresponsible behavior and lack of commitment to social norms and legal are also common characteristics in psychopaths. These people usually show uncontrolled impulsivity, acting without considering the consequences of their actions and without respecting established rules. Their lack of self-control and respect for social norms leads them to behave erratically and dangerously.
Parasitic lifestyle
Psychopathic individuals tend to maintain a parasitic lifestyle , taking advantage of others to satisfy their own needs without showing reciprocity. They can take economic advantage of the people around them, exploiting their resources and generosity without feeling any kind of obligation or gratitude. This parasitic attitude reflects their lack of empathy and their sense of superiority over others.
Lack of realistic long-term goals
The lack of realistic long-term goals is another criterion that Cleckley identified psychopathy. Psychopathic individuals often lack coherent and consistent plans for the future, preferring to live in the moment and satisfy their immediate needs without worrying about long-term consequences. This lack of vision for the future reflects your impulsiveness and your inability to set realistic and achievable goals.
Problems in interpersonal relationships
Problems in interpersonal relationships are a direct consequence of psychopathic traits described by Cleckley. Lack of empathy, manipulative behavior, and emotional superficiality make it difficult to create meaningful and healthy connections with others. Psychopaths tend to use people as objects to satisfy their own needs, without concern for the well-being or feelings of others.
Antisocial Behavior
Finally, Cleckley identified the behavior Antisocial as an important criterion in psychopathy. Psychopathic individuals often show a lack of respect for social and legal norms, acting in an aggressive, violent or criminal manner without showing remorse for their actions. This antisocial behavior can manifest itself in different ways, from small acts of transgression to more serious criminal behavior.
In conclusion, Cleckley's diagnostic criteria for psychopathy provide a useful guide to identifying individuals with this personality disorder. . Although these criteria have been reviewed and updated over time, they remain fundamental to understanding the complexity of psychopathy and its implications on the lives of those who suffer from it and on society in general.