Karma is seen as a natural law which maintains that every act done, no matter how insignificant, will eventually return to the doer with equal impact. Good will be returned with good; evil with evil. If good or evil befall you, it is because of something you have done to bring it about.
Karma is also referred to as a "moral law of cause and effect." Karma is both an encouragement to do good and to avoid evil, as well as an explanation for whatever good or evil befalls a person.
We all have had occasions in our life where, following good deeds by us, good things happen for us. Also, unfortunately we have done things which, no matter how strong and convincing our justifications, we knew was wrong to engage in whether through stupidity, ignorance, apathy or just plain self centeredness has brought about negative situations and loss in our lives.
I wonder how many people when involved in a life situation that makes them jump up and down, protest and shout, "I'm a victim!!! This person or entity is doing me wrong!" actually stop and think about past transgressions which they perpetrated on another person or people-making them the victim of his or her self centered an selfish actions?
No human being is exempt from this moral law (I prefer to call it the law of sowing and reaping). It's hard to feel sorry for someone who now finds themselves being victimized when you know for so long it was they who were doing the victimizing! Actually it is very gratifying to see them whining an squirming, calling out for assistance, shouting things are unfair!!
All I have to say is "whine an squirm on!!! Your getting what you deserve! You asked for it by your actions to another or others!". Ah, the satisfaction!!!
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Thursday, July 19, 2012
12 Warning Signs That It’s Emotional Infidelity – And Not ‘Just Friendship’
When you think of
cheating, most of you may think of your partner having sex with another person.
What about emotional infidelity, is it as bad? Is it worse? These emotional affairs
have been escalating for decades now and are a big problem in relationships
because according to statistics approximately 80% of these platonic
liaisons cross over into a sexual affair.
There are at least 12 warning signs to alert you to take action to protect yourself and your relationship from ‘emotional infidelity.’
1. Thinking and saying you’re ‘just friends’ with opposite-sex.
If you’ve been thinking or saying, “we’re just friends,” think again. If it’s a member of the opposite sex, you may be swimming in
treacherous waters. The very words are dangerous to your marriage.
This rationale allows you to make excuses, or more plainly, to tell lies (to yourself and others) about something you know in your gut is wrong. Regardless how strongly TV and entertainment promote the idea of opposite-sex friendships (and this is part of the problem!) as not only ‘okay,’ but also ‘right’ to demand unconditional trust, in most cases, an intimate friendship with a member of the opposite-sex that you find interesting and attractive poses risks.
emotional bond between two people, time better used in marriage relationship. Giving this away to another person, regardless
of the justification, is infidelity, a betrayal of trust. This is especially true when you consider that emotional intimacy is the most
powerful bond in human relationships, much stronger than a sexual one.
3. Discussing
troubling aspects of your marriage and partners.
Talking or venting to
a person of the opposite sex about what your marriage lacks, what your partner
lacks, or what you’re notgetting to make you happy sends a loud message that you’re available for someone else to ‘love and care’ for your needs. It’s
also a breach of trust. And, like gossip, it creates a false sense of shared connection, and an illusion that you, your happiness,
your comfort and needs are totally valued by this person (when, in truth, this has not been put to the test!). Statistics have
shown that most cases will eventually reveal that this person was after one thing and one thing only... SEX and once achieving
their agenda will care less about your needs, comfort and feelings. Is it worth damaging or destroying your life with a person
you know is committed to you for the illusion being portrayed by someone who is proving by their contact with you to be
untrustworthy?
4. Comparing them
verbally and mentally to your partner.
Another danger sign is
a thinking pattern that increasingly finds what is ‘positive’ and ‘just right’
about the friend and ‘negative’ and ‘unfulfilling’ about the partner. This builds a case ‘for’ the friend and ‘against’ the partner. Another mental breach of trust,
this unfairly builds a physiologically felt case ‘for’ the friend and ‘against’ the partner, forming mental images in the brain that
associate pleasurable and painful sensations accordingly. The "friend" is only allowing you to see the side that you have told
them knowingly or unknowingly that you are longing for in your partner. Everyone has baggage, some more than others. Just
think of the disappointment and embarrassment you will feel once you have thrown away your relationship with your partner
only to find the "friend" to be far worse.
6. Believing this
person ‘gets’ you like no other.
It always appears this
way in affairs and romantic encounters at the start. It’s an illusion, and in
the case of emotional infidelity, one that is dangerous to a marriage because
the sense of mutual ‘understanding’ forms a bond that strengthens and deepens
emotional intimacy, with the release of pleasurable neurochemicals, such as the
love and safety hormone oxytocin. This focus also puts you in a ‘getting’ frame
of mind. It means you are approaching your marriage in terms of what you’re
getting or not getting, rather than what you’re contributing. Again, you have either knowingly or unknowingly through conversation given the person a blueprint on what you want in life and what you want to hear. Its a game to present to you the picture of complete understanding when really all they are working toward is getting your clothes off. If you think the person "gets" you like no other, you need to wake up before they "get you" the way only your partner should!
7. Pulling out of
regular activities with your partner, family, work.
Being absorbed with desire
to spend more and more time talking, sharing, being with the person, it’s only
natural to begin to resent time you spend on responsibilities and activities at
home (and work?). As a result, you begin to pull away, turn down, or make
excuses for not joining regular activities with your partner and family. Family
members notice you are withdrawn, irritable and unhappy. Its not that you are unhappy with your partner or your life, your unhappy with yourself and running to a relationship with someone else will not change that especially when you find out the mistake you have made and the mess you created.
8. Keeping what you do
secret and covering up your trail.
Secrecy itself is a
warning sign. It creates a distinct closeness between two people, and at the
same time grows the distance between them and others. Secrets create a special
bond, most often an unhealthy one. For example, there may be a false sense of
emotional safety and trust with the person, and an unwarranted mistrust and suspicion
of the partner, or those who try to interfere with the ‘friendship.’ Stop and think about how you would feel if the shoe was on the other foot and your partner was keeping secrets from you. Would you be hurt? Would you stop trusting your partner? Would your lack of trust be justified? If you are keeping secrets with someone else and not your partner then you are proving to be untrustworthy as a person. Do you like being emotionally hurt? Do you like hurting people that love you and have committed to you?
10. Fantasizing about
a love or sexual relationship with the person.
At some point, one or
both persons begin to fantasize about having a love or sexual relationship with
the other. They may begin to have discussions about this, which adds to the
intensity, the intrigue and the intoxicating addictive releases of
neurochemicals that make the pattern more entrenched. Statistics have shown that the majority that fantasize about a person are completely disappointed following realizing the fantasy in real life. Its nor worth the wedge that it drives between you and your partner. STOP!
11. Giving or
receiving personal gifts from the person.
Another flag is when
the obsession affects your buying behaviors, so that you begin to think about
this person when you are shopping, wondering what they like or would show your
appreciation. The gift choices are something intimate items that you would not
give ‘just’ a friend. Gifts send clear messages that the two of you are a
‘close we’ set apart from others, and that the relationship is ‘special.’
If you find yourself
doing some of the above actions, you should pull back quickly and reevaluate
your situation before you ruin your marriage.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
How To Stop Cheating On Your Partner
1. Avoid situations where you are alone with the opposite sex. This includes online social networking sites. Contact online may seem fun and harmless at first but will definitely lead to other more personal forms of communication such as texting, phone calls, picture messaging, etc. NEVER, NEVER give someone of the opposite sex any of your contact information- email address, phone numbers at home or work or address. Sociopaths use the internet as a world wide singles bar. Dont fool yourself, Many
make the mistake of thinking that just because they have no intentions of
cheating that they will be able to avoid having an affair. This is not the
case. Human desires can overpower you at the right moment, especially when you
are vulnerable. The whole point of applying this rule is to take precautions.
2. Your job may require meetings with the opposite sex. Take as
much precaution as possible. You could have the meeting in a more public environment.
Another coworker could join in on the meeting. This may seem a bit extreme, you
might say, but if you sincerely would like to stop cheating on your spouse the
sacrifice is necessary.
3. Continue to grow spiritually, emotionally and physically with
your husband or wife. More than ever it is necessary to continuously build in
your relationship with your partner. Keep the romance alive by setting aside
quality time, without any distractions. Take part in spiritual activities
together so that you can be spiritually in tuned to one another. Maintain a
consistent dialogue to prevent drifting apart. Express your feelings and be
open and honest about your needs and desires.
4. Do not confide in the opposite sex about your relationship.
Confiding in the opposite sex seems to be one of the most common excuses many
cheaters make. "Oh, we got to talking, and one thing led to another,"
they might say. Remember, the only way you are going to stop cheating in the
future is by putting up safeguards. Talking to the opposite sex about personal
issues in your relationship or confiding in them at all can lead to an
emotional dependence. You should be emotionally dependent on your spouse. Any
concerns or issues you have with your partner should be discussed with them.
5. It is natural to feel attracted to someone of the opposite sex. However, many make the mistake of flirting. Flirting gives the impression that you are available when you are actually not. If you find that a coworker or other acquaintance, even after being aware that you are married, attempts to seduce you by flirting, find ways to avoid those attempts. Make conversations very brief and business-like. The fact that they persist after knowing you are married is an indicator of a psychological disorder and a definite sign that things will end very badly.
7. Another common mistake many make is drinking and especially getting intoxicated at parties, whether it be with coworkers or with friends. Intoxication combined with sexual desire will almost always lead to infidelity. Becoming drunk weakens your ability to think clearly and rationally. Therefore, if you want to stop cheating on your spouse, drink in moderation.
If you truly want to
rid yourself of the label “cheater” and become a good spouse, look at these
suggestions that are outlined here for you. You have violated your partner’s
trust; try taking action to mend your broken trust back together.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
TYPE 2 MALE SOCIOPATHS
The type 2 male sociopath drinks heavily no matter what, has a history of frequent fights and arrests, they are impulsive risk takers, curious, excitable, quick tempered, optimistic and independent. The psychopath is incapable of having long lasting, close, warm and responsible relationships with people. They will habitually lie and cannot hold a job for long. Sociopaths never settle down for any period of time, they will travel without aim looking for jobs or whatever they need and get it by doing anything. A sociopath may look resilient but are very fragile and can erupt very easily. This type comprises as much as 75% of the prison population. Alcohol is a contributing cause or consequence of being antisocial. People that are both antisocial and alcoholic are prone to violent behavior.
An antisocial person's disorder peaks between the ages of 24 and 44 after which drops off sharply. After the age of 30 the sociopath fights less and commits less crime but the illness can persist into the ages of between 60 and 70 but after 30 are less likely to be in trouble with the law. Sociopaths in their thirties will continue to have problems such as unstable relationships, substance abuse, impulsiveness, poor temper control and failure to honor financial obligations. The ratio of men to women is 4 to 1. Identical twins are several times more likely to have a personality disorder compared to fraternal twins. A genetic link strongest in anti-social disorder has a pattern of irresponsible behavior 5 times more common amongst close relatives of anti-social men than in the general population. Some people with a genetic link to alcoholism have a genetic link to anti-social personality disorder as well. Male relatives of people with Somatization Disorder have a higher incidence of anti-social personality disorder ( somatization - begins in the teens to twenties and consists of chronic physical problems and complaints). Sociopaths with a history of substance abuse and criminal behavior fit Manchausen Syndrome (Manchausen is the extreme type of factitious disorder which symptoms are lying, falsification and pathological lying). Sociopaths also have a tendency to have a non-psychiatric condition that is called malingering which is the production of grossly exaggerated symptoms for a specific illness or problem for the purpose of winning legal action or things like committing insurance fraud or basically anything they have to lie to obtain. If a person is diagnosed with Anti-Social Personality Disorder is very hard to treat and there is no cure for their behavior. Because the disorder remits in the thirties, it tends to be less obvious. Those that are forced into psychotherapy cannot tolerate the intimacy of the required therapy. The therapist has to focus on enhancing strength, channel the sensation of seeking actions on people into more positive socially responsible behaviors and to teach practical ways in dealing with every day frustration. Medications are not recommended in the treatment of sociopath but drugs can diminish the violent episodes. People with Anti-Social Personality Disorder also have Attention Deficit\ Hyperactivity Disorder and stimulants are used to treat that such as Ritalin. There are no long term results to study of this approach of using stimulants but they should not be prescribed unless the person is specifically diagnosed with AD\HD and has not responded to other medication. The drugs used to treat are commonly abused and should be closely monitored. Those that are convicted of crimes are usually incarcerated. Some sociopaths may be able to instead of a jail term choose a residential facility that has counseling but there is a high drop out rate in those facilities. The sociopath can seem charming in superficial social interactions but repeatedly hurt, anger, exploit, cheat, rob, harass or injure them. The actions a psychopath no matter what laws they break, whoever they hurt, whatever trouble they have to deal with they do not feel bad. When a sociopath is punished they have no feeling of regret because no matter how cruel or selfish the behavior is they feel it is justified. Normal functioning individuals give the sociopath little sympathy because they hurt people so bad but their illness is recognized as somewhat of an explanation of why they do it. The idea of the disorder is no excuse for their behavior that results from it.
The sociopathic behavior problems that start as a child have links to heredity, a family with a pre-disposition to perform crimes, alcoholic parents that do crimes, irresponsible behavior that persists and parents that do not discipline gives foundation to a child that will eventually be a sociopath and will exhibit certain feelings inside such as inadequacy and shame. The child characteristics of a future sociopath consist of being incapable of following the rules. The youngster will skip school, bully, steal, torment animals, run away from home and the child is likely to develop Attention Deficit \Hyperactivity Disorder or AD|HD. At an earlier age than their peer group the child will smoke drink, do drugs, and become sexually active. The diagnoses of Anti-Social Personality Disorder is not used for people under the age of 18. The Psychopath is defined in the dictionary as a person suffering from, especially a severe mental disorder with aggressive antisocial behavior which is a nice way of saying a quick tempered person. There are many characteristics of a sociopath and each sociopath has their own special traits. A sociopath gets great gratification in the act of hurting someone for absolutely no reason. The behavior of a sociopath is so close to normal it is extremely hard to diagnose. A sociopath is a person that acts against society and their sole purpose it seems is to act against the laws of the given land their end. The sociopath will in most cases become violent and abuse drugs and alcohol to facilitate the violent behavior. The violence in many cases is the result of sub-concious decisions that might lead to assaulting someone for no reason.
There is a disorder called Borderline that is often misdiagnosed as Anti-Social Personality Disorder which is quite similar to it. Borderline Disorder is a little bit more aggressive than Antisocial. Characteristics of Borderline Disorder Violating the rights of others and age appropriate societal norms or rules with at least three of the following in the past 6 months and one in the last 12 Aggression to People and Animals; 1. often bullying, threatening, or intimidating others; 2. often iniating fights; 3. use of a weapon that can cause serious physical harm to others (bat , brick, broken bottle, gun, knife); 4. physical cruelty to people and animals; 5. stealing in a confrontation with victim ( mugging, purse snatching, extortion, armed robbery); 6. forcing someone into sexual activity; 7. Destruction of Property - deliberate fire setting with intention to cause serious damage; 8. deliberate destruction of other's property in other ways; 9. Deceitfulness or Theft-breaking into someone's house, car, building; 10. frequent lying to get goods, favors and avoid obligations; 11. stealing items of non-trivial value without confronting the victim, forgery, shoplifting; 12. Serious Violation of the Rules- often staying out all night dispite parental rules that begin before the age of 13; 13. running away from home at least twice (once not returning for a lengthy period); 14. frequent truancy from school, significant impairment in functioning socially at school or work in individuals 18 or older but symptoms don't meet criteria for Anti - Social Disorder. The diagnoses of a sociopath is extremely difficult because they have so many mental problems to contend with the complete diagnoses might not occur. The possibility of being diagnosed with something similar to being a sociopath is quite great and this point should be stressed with relationship between Borderline and Anti-Social Disorder.
An antisocial person's disorder peaks between the ages of 24 and 44 after which drops off sharply. After the age of 30 the sociopath fights less and commits less crime but the illness can persist into the ages of between 60 and 70 but after 30 are less likely to be in trouble with the law. Sociopaths in their thirties will continue to have problems such as unstable relationships, substance abuse, impulsiveness, poor temper control and failure to honor financial obligations. The ratio of men to women is 4 to 1. Identical twins are several times more likely to have a personality disorder compared to fraternal twins. A genetic link strongest in anti-social disorder has a pattern of irresponsible behavior 5 times more common amongst close relatives of anti-social men than in the general population. Some people with a genetic link to alcoholism have a genetic link to anti-social personality disorder as well. Male relatives of people with Somatization Disorder have a higher incidence of anti-social personality disorder ( somatization - begins in the teens to twenties and consists of chronic physical problems and complaints). Sociopaths with a history of substance abuse and criminal behavior fit Manchausen Syndrome (Manchausen is the extreme type of factitious disorder which symptoms are lying, falsification and pathological lying). Sociopaths also have a tendency to have a non-psychiatric condition that is called malingering which is the production of grossly exaggerated symptoms for a specific illness or problem for the purpose of winning legal action or things like committing insurance fraud or basically anything they have to lie to obtain. If a person is diagnosed with Anti-Social Personality Disorder is very hard to treat and there is no cure for their behavior. Because the disorder remits in the thirties, it tends to be less obvious. Those that are forced into psychotherapy cannot tolerate the intimacy of the required therapy. The therapist has to focus on enhancing strength, channel the sensation of seeking actions on people into more positive socially responsible behaviors and to teach practical ways in dealing with every day frustration. Medications are not recommended in the treatment of sociopath but drugs can diminish the violent episodes. People with Anti-Social Personality Disorder also have Attention Deficit\ Hyperactivity Disorder and stimulants are used to treat that such as Ritalin. There are no long term results to study of this approach of using stimulants but they should not be prescribed unless the person is specifically diagnosed with AD\HD and has not responded to other medication. The drugs used to treat are commonly abused and should be closely monitored. Those that are convicted of crimes are usually incarcerated. Some sociopaths may be able to instead of a jail term choose a residential facility that has counseling but there is a high drop out rate in those facilities. The sociopath can seem charming in superficial social interactions but repeatedly hurt, anger, exploit, cheat, rob, harass or injure them. The actions a psychopath no matter what laws they break, whoever they hurt, whatever trouble they have to deal with they do not feel bad. When a sociopath is punished they have no feeling of regret because no matter how cruel or selfish the behavior is they feel it is justified. Normal functioning individuals give the sociopath little sympathy because they hurt people so bad but their illness is recognized as somewhat of an explanation of why they do it. The idea of the disorder is no excuse for their behavior that results from it.
The sociopathic behavior problems that start as a child have links to heredity, a family with a pre-disposition to perform crimes, alcoholic parents that do crimes, irresponsible behavior that persists and parents that do not discipline gives foundation to a child that will eventually be a sociopath and will exhibit certain feelings inside such as inadequacy and shame. The child characteristics of a future sociopath consist of being incapable of following the rules. The youngster will skip school, bully, steal, torment animals, run away from home and the child is likely to develop Attention Deficit \Hyperactivity Disorder or AD|HD. At an earlier age than their peer group the child will smoke drink, do drugs, and become sexually active. The diagnoses of Anti-Social Personality Disorder is not used for people under the age of 18. The Psychopath is defined in the dictionary as a person suffering from, especially a severe mental disorder with aggressive antisocial behavior which is a nice way of saying a quick tempered person. There are many characteristics of a sociopath and each sociopath has their own special traits. A sociopath gets great gratification in the act of hurting someone for absolutely no reason. The behavior of a sociopath is so close to normal it is extremely hard to diagnose. A sociopath is a person that acts against society and their sole purpose it seems is to act against the laws of the given land their end. The sociopath will in most cases become violent and abuse drugs and alcohol to facilitate the violent behavior. The violence in many cases is the result of sub-concious decisions that might lead to assaulting someone for no reason.
There is a disorder called Borderline that is often misdiagnosed as Anti-Social Personality Disorder which is quite similar to it. Borderline Disorder is a little bit more aggressive than Antisocial. Characteristics of Borderline Disorder Violating the rights of others and age appropriate societal norms or rules with at least three of the following in the past 6 months and one in the last 12 Aggression to People and Animals; 1. often bullying, threatening, or intimidating others; 2. often iniating fights; 3. use of a weapon that can cause serious physical harm to others (bat , brick, broken bottle, gun, knife); 4. physical cruelty to people and animals; 5. stealing in a confrontation with victim ( mugging, purse snatching, extortion, armed robbery); 6. forcing someone into sexual activity; 7. Destruction of Property - deliberate fire setting with intention to cause serious damage; 8. deliberate destruction of other's property in other ways; 9. Deceitfulness or Theft-breaking into someone's house, car, building; 10. frequent lying to get goods, favors and avoid obligations; 11. stealing items of non-trivial value without confronting the victim, forgery, shoplifting; 12. Serious Violation of the Rules- often staying out all night dispite parental rules that begin before the age of 13; 13. running away from home at least twice (once not returning for a lengthy period); 14. frequent truancy from school, significant impairment in functioning socially at school or work in individuals 18 or older but symptoms don't meet criteria for Anti - Social Disorder. The diagnoses of a sociopath is extremely difficult because they have so many mental problems to contend with the complete diagnoses might not occur. The possibility of being diagnosed with something similar to being a sociopath is quite great and this point should be stressed with relationship between Borderline and Anti-Social Disorder.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
PSYCHOPATHY VS SOCIOPATHY
Psychopathy or Sociopathy?
Dr. Robert Hare, one of the leading experts in the study of psychopathy, suggests that the difference between sociopathy and psychopathy may primarily reflect how the person using these terms views the factors contributing to the antisocial disorder.
More apt to view antisocial behavior as arising from social conflicts, sociologists typically prefer the term sociopath. Whereas, psychologists use the term psychopathy to describe a psychological disorder that is the product of a combination of psychological, biological, genetic and environmental factors (Hare 1999).
Is Psychopathy 'Nature'?
In agreement with Hare’s assessment, David Lykken, a behavioral geneticist best known for his work on twin studies, viewed psychopaths as having inherent temperamental differences such as impulsivity, fearlessness, and reduced physiological responsiveness resulting in a high level of risk-seeking behavior and lack of adherence to social norms. Recent research has demonstrated that early signs predictive of psychopathy can be present at a very young age (Viding 2005, Glenn 2007).
Is Sociopathy 'Nurture'?
He considered sociopaths to possess reasonably normal temperaments; their social pathology more a result of negative sociological factors such as parental neglect, running with the wrong crowd, poverty, and extremely low or extremely high intelligence(Lykken 1995).
Although all personality disorders are likely to be the result of some level of interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental factors, according to these definitions, psychopathy is defined primarily by hereditary and sociopathy by environmental influences.
Antisocial PD and Psychopathy
As with the conflict surrounding the nature of psychopathy versus sociopathy, there is also debate over the difference between psychopathy and Antisocial Personality Disorder (APD or ASPD).
What is APD?
According to the DSM-IV-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), in order to be diagnosed with Antisocial Personality Disorder, a patient must have a persistent history of disregard for and violation of the others’ rights, occurring since age 15, evidenced by three (or more) of the following traits:.
*failure to conform to social norms
*deceitfulness
*repeated lying
*use of aliases
*manipulation of others
*impulsivity or failure to plan ahead
*irritability and aggressiveness
*reckless disregard for safety of self or others
*consistent irresponsibility
*lack of remorse, indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt or mistreated others.
Limitations of ADP Diagnosis
Although the description in DSM-TR reflect the perspective that psychopathy is synonymous with APD, more recent research has cast doubt (Cunningham 1998, Hare 1999, Herve 2006).
The DSM diagnosis of APD is primarily a list of antisocial or criminal behaviors. Hugues Herve, one of the early thought leaders in the study of psychopathy, saw the diagnosis of ADP as lacking in its failure “to capture the personality features that clinicians have noted to be most essential in discriminating psychopaths from other criminals.”
The McCords, a pair of academicians offering us some of the earliest glimpses into psychopathy, share a similar view, stating that “the actions of a psychopath are only outward symptoms of a sick mind … any adequate study of the psychopath must look beyond asociality” (1964).
Psychopathy More Specific than APD
Because the diagnosis of APD is based primarily of a short list of antisocial behaviors, and psychopathy is more clearly defined as including many subjective traits, the diagnosis of APD is, by nature, less discriminating.
Hare wanted to see a more reliable, less subjective method that could more completely assess the complex traits of psychopaths, so his team of clinicians spent more than ten years developing and refining a new, more reliable assessment tool. The diagnostic device that Hare’s team developed was dubbed the Psychopathy Checklist (PCL), and is now widely used to professionally diagnose psychopathy (Hare 1985, 1999).
Using DSM and PCL as tools for assessing APD and psychopathy, respectively, most individuals with psychopathy would be clinically diagnosed as having APD, however, the majority of individuals with APD would not qualify as being psychopathic (Hare 1998).
Criminal Behavior of APD and Psychopathy
Hare’s studies of psychopathy have revealed that the percentage of incarcerated criminals that would meet the criteria of having APD is approximately 85%, however, when assessed for psychopathy, only about 20% of these same criminals would quality. Psychopathy has also proven to be a better predictor of violent and sexual recidivism as well as treatment failure (Cunningham 1998), further evidence supporting a real difference between criminals with APD and true psychopaths.
Dr. Robert Hare, one of the leading experts in the study of psychopathy, suggests that the difference between sociopathy and psychopathy may primarily reflect how the person using these terms views the factors contributing to the antisocial disorder.
More apt to view antisocial behavior as arising from social conflicts, sociologists typically prefer the term sociopath. Whereas, psychologists use the term psychopathy to describe a psychological disorder that is the product of a combination of psychological, biological, genetic and environmental factors (Hare 1999).
Is Psychopathy 'Nature'?
In agreement with Hare’s assessment, David Lykken, a behavioral geneticist best known for his work on twin studies, viewed psychopaths as having inherent temperamental differences such as impulsivity, fearlessness, and reduced physiological responsiveness resulting in a high level of risk-seeking behavior and lack of adherence to social norms. Recent research has demonstrated that early signs predictive of psychopathy can be present at a very young age (Viding 2005, Glenn 2007).
Is Sociopathy 'Nurture'?
He considered sociopaths to possess reasonably normal temperaments; their social pathology more a result of negative sociological factors such as parental neglect, running with the wrong crowd, poverty, and extremely low or extremely high intelligence(Lykken 1995).
Although all personality disorders are likely to be the result of some level of interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental factors, according to these definitions, psychopathy is defined primarily by hereditary and sociopathy by environmental influences.
Antisocial PD and Psychopathy
As with the conflict surrounding the nature of psychopathy versus sociopathy, there is also debate over the difference between psychopathy and Antisocial Personality Disorder (APD or ASPD).
What is APD?
According to the DSM-IV-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), in order to be diagnosed with Antisocial Personality Disorder, a patient must have a persistent history of disregard for and violation of the others’ rights, occurring since age 15, evidenced by three (or more) of the following traits:.
*failure to conform to social norms
*deceitfulness
*repeated lying
*use of aliases
*manipulation of others
*impulsivity or failure to plan ahead
*irritability and aggressiveness
*reckless disregard for safety of self or others
*consistent irresponsibility
*lack of remorse, indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt or mistreated others.
Limitations of ADP Diagnosis
Although the description in DSM-TR reflect the perspective that psychopathy is synonymous with APD, more recent research has cast doubt (Cunningham 1998, Hare 1999, Herve 2006).
The DSM diagnosis of APD is primarily a list of antisocial or criminal behaviors. Hugues Herve, one of the early thought leaders in the study of psychopathy, saw the diagnosis of ADP as lacking in its failure “to capture the personality features that clinicians have noted to be most essential in discriminating psychopaths from other criminals.”
The McCords, a pair of academicians offering us some of the earliest glimpses into psychopathy, share a similar view, stating that “the actions of a psychopath are only outward symptoms of a sick mind … any adequate study of the psychopath must look beyond asociality” (1964).
Psychopathy More Specific than APD
Because the diagnosis of APD is based primarily of a short list of antisocial behaviors, and psychopathy is more clearly defined as including many subjective traits, the diagnosis of APD is, by nature, less discriminating.
Hare wanted to see a more reliable, less subjective method that could more completely assess the complex traits of psychopaths, so his team of clinicians spent more than ten years developing and refining a new, more reliable assessment tool. The diagnostic device that Hare’s team developed was dubbed the Psychopathy Checklist (PCL), and is now widely used to professionally diagnose psychopathy (Hare 1985, 1999).
Using DSM and PCL as tools for assessing APD and psychopathy, respectively, most individuals with psychopathy would be clinically diagnosed as having APD, however, the majority of individuals with APD would not qualify as being psychopathic (Hare 1998).
Criminal Behavior of APD and Psychopathy
Hare’s studies of psychopathy have revealed that the percentage of incarcerated criminals that would meet the criteria of having APD is approximately 85%, however, when assessed for psychopathy, only about 20% of these same criminals would quality. Psychopathy has also proven to be a better predictor of violent and sexual recidivism as well as treatment failure (Cunningham 1998), further evidence supporting a real difference between criminals with APD and true psychopaths.
CLECKLEY's LIST FOR APD
Hervey Cleckley’s List
In 1955, Cleckley published a list of core characteristics of the sociopathic personality in his book, Mask of Insanity. He had sixteen personality traits:
1. Superficial charm and intelligence
2. No delusions(unless concurrent with
other psychiatric disorders such as
BPD or schizophrenia)
3. No psychoneurotic behavior
4. Unreliable
5. Pathological lying
6. No remorse
7. Insufficient motivated antisocial
behavior
8. Poor judgment and doesn’t learn
from experience
9. Cannot love
10. Poor in primary experience in
feelings and emotions
11. Loss of insight
12. Not responsive in over all
interpersonal reactions
13. Obnoxious behavior when drunk
and, at times, when sober
14. Suicide threats rarely attempted
15. Sex lives impersonal
16. Fails to follow a plan of life
Treatment for Sociopathy
Sociopathy is treated in different ways, but there is no known cure and the effectiveness of the treatments is not clear and a matter of controversy. Psychopathy can co-exist with other psychiatric disorders.
The primary challenge in treating APD is that the patients usually don’t believe they have a problem. The behavior is often magnetic and charming. They also believe their behavior works and is satisfying to them.
Treatment for sociopathy is individualized and there is no one approach. Many sociopaths have a sense of superiority and think they’re smarter than mental health professionals. Many with are in treatment because they are pressured by family members or mandated by court order. Sociopaths can mimic acceptable behavior and manipulate doctors and therapists.
Different psychological therapies are available. These can be used in conjunction with psychotropic drugs and physical therapy which consists of electroconvulsive therapy, ECT, better known as shock therapy and neurosurgery, the least used and most radical.
Some sociopaths become disenchanted with their behavior and spontaneously grow out of the disorder.
In 1955, Cleckley published a list of core characteristics of the sociopathic personality in his book, Mask of Insanity. He had sixteen personality traits:
1. Superficial charm and intelligence
2. No delusions(unless concurrent with
other psychiatric disorders such as
BPD or schizophrenia)
3. No psychoneurotic behavior
4. Unreliable
5. Pathological lying
6. No remorse
7. Insufficient motivated antisocial
behavior
8. Poor judgment and doesn’t learn
from experience
9. Cannot love
10. Poor in primary experience in
feelings and emotions
11. Loss of insight
12. Not responsive in over all
interpersonal reactions
13. Obnoxious behavior when drunk
and, at times, when sober
14. Suicide threats rarely attempted
15. Sex lives impersonal
16. Fails to follow a plan of life
Treatment for Sociopathy
Sociopathy is treated in different ways, but there is no known cure and the effectiveness of the treatments is not clear and a matter of controversy. Psychopathy can co-exist with other psychiatric disorders.
The primary challenge in treating APD is that the patients usually don’t believe they have a problem. The behavior is often magnetic and charming. They also believe their behavior works and is satisfying to them.
Treatment for sociopathy is individualized and there is no one approach. Many sociopaths have a sense of superiority and think they’re smarter than mental health professionals. Many with are in treatment because they are pressured by family members or mandated by court order. Sociopaths can mimic acceptable behavior and manipulate doctors and therapists.
Different psychological therapies are available. These can be used in conjunction with psychotropic drugs and physical therapy which consists of electroconvulsive therapy, ECT, better known as shock therapy and neurosurgery, the least used and most radical.
Some sociopaths become disenchanted with their behavior and spontaneously grow out of the disorder.
APD and PATHOLOGICAL LYING
APD: A Personality Disorder
APD is a Cluster B Personality Disorder. People in this category continually disregard and violate the rights of others. They have patterns of inner experiences and behaviors that deviate from their society’s norms. Their cognition – viewing and interpreting themselves, people and events and affectivity – appropriateness of response, are abnormal. Interpersonal functioning and impulse control are affected.
APD: DSM IV TR Criteria
There’s an omnipresent pattern of disregard for and violation of the other’s rights, exhibited by the behavior of people, at least eighteen-years-old, that’s not caused by another psychiatric disorder or substances, as evidenced by at least three criteria:
Nonconformance to social norms, including crime
Repeated pathological lying, and taking advantage of others for egocentric pleasure and/or profit
Impulsiveness or failure to plan ahead
Irritability and aggressive behavior that may include physical attacks
Reckless disregard for theirs and other people’s safety
Irresponsibility which may include failure to maintain acceptable job performance and/or other obligations
No remorse, being indifferent to or rationalizing, hurting and abusing others.
Sociopathy varies in degrees. The number of diagnosed sociopaths in psychiatric institutions is relatively small. Many are incarcerated, but more live in society. They might be con artists, imposters, tricksters, charlatans or unscrupulous professional or business people. They can be politicians, lawyers, psychiatrists, psychologists and doctors.
Some mental health professionals use the terms Antisocial Personality Disorder or APD, psychopathy and sociopathy interchangeably although some others theorize that sociopathy is a type of psychopathy.
Early Recognition of Sociopathy
During the nineteenth century, morality was related to personality. In 1835, English psychiatrist James Pritchard coined the term moral insanity for criminals who had no self control and nor sense of ethics. These individuals were believed to have normal intellectual capabilities, but their behavior was improper and indecent.
Years later, the idea of psychopathic inferiority was developed. The prevailing assumption was that the nervous system was defective. In the early part of the twentieth century, the American Psychiatric Association defined what constituted a psychopath. They were amoral, antisocial, impulsive and irresponsible, satisfying their egocentric needs with without concern for consequences and had little guilt or anxiety.
A distinction between a sociopath and psychopath was formulated. Sociopaths were thought to act within the law; psychopaths violated the law. One mental health professional said these people’s behavior was acceptable to no one but themselves.
Mental health professionals noted that typical sociopaths were very charming. They speak well, are ingratiating and talk of their experiences. These experiences are often are often exaggerated and/or lies. They are often pathological liars. Their descriptions of events are generally different from others’ recollections.
Pathological Liars with APD and NPD
While this type of lying can be present in other psychiatric disorders, they are most prevalent in the APD and the NPD. The hallmark of the APD is lacking conscience. They’re exploitive, have no regard for others’ feelings and lie repeatedly. The hallmarks of the NPD are a sense of entitlement and grandiosity. They exaggerate their achievements, lack empathy and exploit others.
Treatment for these types of liars must begin with addressing the personality disorders. This includes psychotropic medications and therapy which usually is behavioral and cognitive behavioral. Both therapies focus on changing the behavior of the patient with APD or NPD. Cognitive therapy also identifies and changes dysfunctional thinking and emotional responses.
Therapy requires cooperation from the patient. The problem with this is that treating people with APD and NPD can be difficult because these individuals generally lie to the therapist about taking medications and their behavior. Many people with these conditions routinely fail to recognize their behavior as problematic and are therefore unlikely to seek psychological help. They seem content to continue to lie as long as their egocentric needs are being satisfied. Some NPDs, if committed to changing, can be helped. There is no known effective treatment for the APD.
Options - How to Deal with Pathological Liars
Coping with these liars can be frustrating. Sometimes it’s hard to separate truth from their lies. It’s best not to confront these liars directly because, they will probably become defensive and rationalize by lying again, they might be angry or they might exhibit both behaviors. There are other options for dealing with them.
Some believe that one should suggest the liar seek professional help. This can be a delicate situation because these liars don’t see anything wrong with their lying. Some believe their lies. In both cases it’s likely they would be offended and get angry. It’s the least desirable choice.
Others believe one should realize the person is a pathological liar and to ignore the lies.
People, when they hear two different versions of an event, can act confused and say, “I thought you said…. Please help me to understand.”
The last option is to end the relationship with the liar, if possible..
APD is a Cluster B Personality Disorder. People in this category continually disregard and violate the rights of others. They have patterns of inner experiences and behaviors that deviate from their society’s norms. Their cognition – viewing and interpreting themselves, people and events and affectivity – appropriateness of response, are abnormal. Interpersonal functioning and impulse control are affected.
APD: DSM IV TR Criteria
There’s an omnipresent pattern of disregard for and violation of the other’s rights, exhibited by the behavior of people, at least eighteen-years-old, that’s not caused by another psychiatric disorder or substances, as evidenced by at least three criteria:
Nonconformance to social norms, including crime
Repeated pathological lying, and taking advantage of others for egocentric pleasure and/or profit
Impulsiveness or failure to plan ahead
Irritability and aggressive behavior that may include physical attacks
Reckless disregard for theirs and other people’s safety
Irresponsibility which may include failure to maintain acceptable job performance and/or other obligations
No remorse, being indifferent to or rationalizing, hurting and abusing others.
Sociopathy varies in degrees. The number of diagnosed sociopaths in psychiatric institutions is relatively small. Many are incarcerated, but more live in society. They might be con artists, imposters, tricksters, charlatans or unscrupulous professional or business people. They can be politicians, lawyers, psychiatrists, psychologists and doctors.
Some mental health professionals use the terms Antisocial Personality Disorder or APD, psychopathy and sociopathy interchangeably although some others theorize that sociopathy is a type of psychopathy.
Early Recognition of Sociopathy
During the nineteenth century, morality was related to personality. In 1835, English psychiatrist James Pritchard coined the term moral insanity for criminals who had no self control and nor sense of ethics. These individuals were believed to have normal intellectual capabilities, but their behavior was improper and indecent.
Years later, the idea of psychopathic inferiority was developed. The prevailing assumption was that the nervous system was defective. In the early part of the twentieth century, the American Psychiatric Association defined what constituted a psychopath. They were amoral, antisocial, impulsive and irresponsible, satisfying their egocentric needs with without concern for consequences and had little guilt or anxiety.
A distinction between a sociopath and psychopath was formulated. Sociopaths were thought to act within the law; psychopaths violated the law. One mental health professional said these people’s behavior was acceptable to no one but themselves.
Mental health professionals noted that typical sociopaths were very charming. They speak well, are ingratiating and talk of their experiences. These experiences are often are often exaggerated and/or lies. They are often pathological liars. Their descriptions of events are generally different from others’ recollections.
Pathological Liars with APD and NPD
While this type of lying can be present in other psychiatric disorders, they are most prevalent in the APD and the NPD. The hallmark of the APD is lacking conscience. They’re exploitive, have no regard for others’ feelings and lie repeatedly. The hallmarks of the NPD are a sense of entitlement and grandiosity. They exaggerate their achievements, lack empathy and exploit others.
Treatment for these types of liars must begin with addressing the personality disorders. This includes psychotropic medications and therapy which usually is behavioral and cognitive behavioral. Both therapies focus on changing the behavior of the patient with APD or NPD. Cognitive therapy also identifies and changes dysfunctional thinking and emotional responses.
Therapy requires cooperation from the patient. The problem with this is that treating people with APD and NPD can be difficult because these individuals generally lie to the therapist about taking medications and their behavior. Many people with these conditions routinely fail to recognize their behavior as problematic and are therefore unlikely to seek psychological help. They seem content to continue to lie as long as their egocentric needs are being satisfied. Some NPDs, if committed to changing, can be helped. There is no known effective treatment for the APD.
Options - How to Deal with Pathological Liars
Coping with these liars can be frustrating. Sometimes it’s hard to separate truth from their lies. It’s best not to confront these liars directly because, they will probably become defensive and rationalize by lying again, they might be angry or they might exhibit both behaviors. There are other options for dealing with them.
Some believe that one should suggest the liar seek professional help. This can be a delicate situation because these liars don’t see anything wrong with their lying. Some believe their lies. In both cases it’s likely they would be offended and get angry. It’s the least desirable choice.
Others believe one should realize the person is a pathological liar and to ignore the lies.
People, when they hear two different versions of an event, can act confused and say, “I thought you said…. Please help me to understand.”
The last option is to end the relationship with the liar, if possible..
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)