Mystery writing: psychopath vs. sociopath

When discussing criminals or criminal behavior, in novels and other works of fiction it is common for the perpetrator to be referred to as a psychopath or a sociopath. In fact, the terms are often used interchangeably as if they represent the exact same characteristics. However, while the two share similarities, there are differences. It is important for the mystery writer to recognize the differences between the two to create a realistic and cohesive character.

Neither psychopath or sociopath are official diagnoses in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals. The DSM-5 classification that these fall under is that of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD). This implies that both psychopathic and sociopathic behaviors are derivatives of ASPD.

Having said this, let’s look at the similarities and differences between the two terms.

The Sociopath
Sociopaths have these characteristics: 

• Quick to get angry and defensive when confronted. 
• May have legal issues and unstable personal lives.
• Have a weak “conscience.” 
• It is believed that a person’s environment can play a part in becoming a sociopath.

In addition, sociopaths break laws; manipulate others for personal gain; tend to be physically aggressive, angry, and hostile; have unpredictable mood swings with impulsive, chaotic, and dramatic behavior; and are unreliable in relationships.

The Psychopath
Psychopaths, on the other hand:

• Normally do not explode under pressure.
• Can under-respond in dangerous situations. 
• Avoid developing relationships.
• Use people for their own gain.
• Have no “conscience.”
• Are affected by both a genetic and biological role.

Psychopaths have few (if any) emotions and display a striking lack of care for others; get pleasure from causing pain to others and have no remorse for their behavior; use relationships purely for gain; can be charming but are pathological liars; have a lack of fear and are risk-takers; exercise poor judgment and have a lack of life goals.

As you can see from the above comparisons, sociopaths and psychopaths share many similar features. The main difference is the degree to which each behaves in a detrimental, often criminal way. While the sociopath has a weak conscience, the psychopath has none. The sociopath can react very defensively and be quick to get angry, while the psychopath can be charming, cold, calculating, and unreactive to stressful situations. In general, sociopaths are considered angry and hostile while psychopaths can be charming and manipulative. 

The exact causes of sociopathy and psychopathy are not well understood. However, it is believed with sociopathy that environment and parenting play a larger role than with psychopaths. Children who experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, or have an absence of creating bonds with caregivers increases the risk of becoming a sociopath.

While a psychopath’s environment may play a role, brain functions are cited as more common with psychopaths. Specifically, a dysfunction in the area of the brain called the amygdala has been associated with psychopathy. This area is responsible for regulating emotion and appropriate reactions to potentially dangerous or threatening situations.

Why does all of this matter?

When writing about villains or perpetrators of crimes, the distinction can be useful. When describing an individual who has experienced an abusive upbringing, is quick to anger, and has a weak but existing conscience, they are most likely to be a sociopath. They can have criminal behavior, but not to the abhorrent extent of a psychopath. 

The psychopath may have an absence of an abusive upbringing. They are highly manipulative for their own gain and enjoy seeing the pain they inflict on others. They seem to have no conscience, are able to be charming, and appear calm in the midst of stressful situations.

Estimates are that between 25%-30% of people with ASPD also have psychopathy. Psychopaths make up about 1% of the population, but 15%-25% of the prison population. Those with psychopathy are 15-25 times more likely to break the law and end up in prison than others. It should be noted that there are no successful treatments for either condition.