You may have heard the term “sociopathy” thrown around about someone who doesn’t feel empathy, acts in ways different from others in society, and for people who have committed crimes. So, what is sociopathy exactly? Is it the same as Antisocial Personality Disorder (APD)?
Breaking Down the Stigma of Antisocial Personality Disorder
Sociopathy is another word that is often misused to describe those with anti-social personality disorder. It is a reasonably outdated term and is often used as a blanket term to describe people who simply struggle with empathy, all the way to murderers in prison.
Let’s take a look at some of the symptoms that people with anti-social personality disorder or sociopathy may face:
- Lack of empathy – Lack of empathy is a common symptom of APD. It could mean not understanding or feeling the emotions of others.
- Manipulative tactics – Some people with APD behave manipulatively to get what they want from others.
- Impulsivity – People with APD often resort to impulsive actions, including overspending, risky behaviors, and crime.
- A lack of remorse- Some people with APD also feel a lack of remorse for hurting others or for the consequences of their actions.
- Anti-social behaviors – Anti-social is in the name of the condition, and it is also a symptom. Those with APD may be afraid of connections or simply not desire relationships with others. They may see a relationship as a transaction.
It’s important to remember that not everyone with APD is abusive or a criminal. Just like there are abusive people without APD, there are abusive people with the condition. It’s important to not attach criminal labels to someone without reason.
Can Those With APD Live Normal Lives?
People with anti-social personality disorder or sociopathic traits can and do live everyday lives. Of course, the symptoms of the illness can still impact them, but some people with APD opt to go to therapy, work on behavioral skills, and work on re-learning empathy.
Treatment for this condition, along with other personality disorders, is available. A highly trained therapist is a good bet if you feel that you may struggle with APD.
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