The terms “psychopath” and
“sociopath” often get used interchangeably, but they are not
exactly the same. It is believed that psychopathy is the largely
the result of genetics, while sociopathy is more likely the
result of the environment. However, it is not completely nature
or nurture, but a complex combination of genetics, neurology,
and environment. They are both classified as Antisocial
Personality Disorders. They both show a disregard for laws and
social mores, a disregard for the rights of others, a failure to
feel remorse or guilt, and a tendency to display violent
behavior.
Psychopathy is related to a physiological defect that results in
the underdevelopment of the part of the brain responsible for
impulse control and emotions. Psychopaths are unable to form
emotional attachments or feel real empathy with others. Traits
include a total freedom from fear, anxiety, or guilt. They can
be charming, outgoing, and charismatic. They thrive on power and
control and are self centered and impulsive.
Sociopathy is likely the product of childhood trauma and
physical/emotional abuse. Sociopathy can also be acquired, such
as by dementia or a head injury. Sociopaths have a less severe
form of lack of empathy and lack of guilt. Sociopaths may be
able to form some deep bonds while a psychopath cannot. A
sociopath would feel no guilt about hurting a stranger, but may
feel guilt and remorse over hurting someone with which they
share a bond. A sociopath is less organized in demeanor and
might be nervous, easily agitated, and quick to display anger.
Sociopaths are often crusaders or martyrs for a perceived cause
and may see their wild acts as necessary.
Psychopaths are confident, social, and dominant, but sociopaths
are reserved and inhibited, sometimes loners.
Psychopaths are exempt from negative emotion, but sociopaths do
experience anxiety and rejection.
Psychopaths have no morals, but sociopaths have a sense of
morality and a conscience however, it is skewed.
Bottom line, all psychopaths are sociopaths, but not all
sociopaths are psychopaths.