Spotting Sociopaths

How do you know you are dealing with a Sociopath?

Part of the problem is, most sociopathic traits are present in all of us at some time. For that reason, it’s almost impossible to label them on just a couple of interactions.

Sociopaths are masters at deception. They’ve lived their entire life hiding who they are, so have no problem lying to your face. But there are some warning signs that seem to be common to sociopaths. You need to spot several of these over a period of time.

Charismatic – did you like them the first time you met? Do they seem to have more energy and confidence that those around them? Are they overly confident, though, never seeming to have any self-doubt and failing to see their own limitations?

Pity – do they actively try to make you feel sorry for them? Do they claim to be a victim?

Rules & Regulations – do they quote laws, constitutions, etc to get people to do things or to close down a discussion or idea. Are people left feeling that they have to do something, rather than they want to?

Uncreative – are the ideas they come up with actually theirs – have you ever caught them claiming someone else’s ideas as their own?

Sarcasm – do they not seem to understand sarcastic comments?

Emotional Switching – can they switch from being enraged one moment, then totally calm the next? Can they be warm and friendly with someone one minute, then be viscously pointing out the person’s faults as soon as they leave the room?

Blame – are they always blaming others for their mistakes

Lies – have you caught them saying one thing, when you have clear evidence this is not the case… and they know it

Questions – do you feel conversations you have with them are not so much small-talk, as them probing you for information?

Criticism – do they seem to point out other people’s failings?

Cold – have they said anything recently to your face that left you feeling hurt, incompetent, embarrassed or guilty?