Characteristics Of Psychopaths
There are many ways that psychopathic behavior can manifest. However, Thomas Sheridan has identified five characteristics that apply to all of them:
no empathy or remorse. Psychopaths do not feel the way your feel. For whatever reason, your pain does not register with them as a valid concern. When they emote it feels false.
invented personas to manipulate others. Psychopaths identify your inner weaknesses and use them to get you to trust and accept them. So if you were unloved as a child, they will become the most loving parent figure. Essentially they figure out your dream and appear to give it to you.
uses pity to manipulate others. Watch out for the pity party. Psychopaths cover their tracks and get you involved with through one sob story after another.
mysterious past. Psychopaths often have vague histories. They may claim honors or military medals which do not in fact exist.
high testosterone levels. This is a difficult characteristic to discern. High testosterone levels are associated with impulsivity and risky behavior including sexual acting out. It can also mean a tendency toward aggression.
It is important look for all five of the above traits before deciding that you are dealing with a psychopath. Notice your energy. If it is uncomfortable or if you feel it going away from you, pay attention. A psychopath is essentially cold in their interactions with others and has many ways to take your energy from you.
I can't really see this myself, as any average bloke might share one or more of these characteristics. Whilst I do think he was acting outside White House Farm that August morning to gain pity and throw people off the scent I find it hard to reconcile his need for hugs as a child with the cold, ruthless killer he was in my opinion not destined to become.
