Ah, psychopaths. Most of us have come across at least one. I mean, if you know more than 25 people, chances are you know at least one psychopath. That is because 4% of the earth’s population is made up of this interesting and scary group of people.
Psychopaths tend to show a lack of empathy, are commonly selfish, lack guilt, and possess a certain charm that they use mostly to manipulate others. (source)
However, many psychopaths may not even know they are a psychopath. It isn’t something someone wakes up and realizes. Therefore, if they don’t know, how do you know?
Dr. Joni Johnston states:
“There is no actual diagnosis of psychopathy in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The best diagnostic instrument to date is the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised, designed to evaluate the recognized characteristics of psychopathic personality and behavior.”
This list of characteristics is quite long, and to be honest, pretty easy to see through. Any psychopath who would wish to conceal their mentality could do so easily.
The test asks questions based on these characteristics. As you take it, think of a specific person that you may believe to be a psychopath. Share the results in the comments!
Take the quiz below!
[h/t: Higher Perspective]