Salekin, R. T. (2019). Psychopathy and therapeutic pessimism clinical lore or clinical reality? Clinical Forensic Psychology and Law, 257–290. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781351161565-14 

Skidmore College

Similar to sociopathy, this condition is a lack of empathy and understanding of others. Emotions may not be experienced much at all in these individuals. However, the emphasis relies more on manipulative behavior. True social connections may not be possible, only feigned. Though manipulative and unempathetic, these individuals can be seen as charming to others and capable of maintaining a relatively normal life. Unlike the sociopath, they tend to be more risk-averse and caring about themselves. 

Additional definition of psychopathy

Studies show that psychopaths do not react negatively to words about violence. Imaging studies show that they have reduced activity in prefrontal cortex and a smaller prefrontal cortex, which may impair their ability to control impulsive behavior

Psychopaths and violence

- Fearlessness model
- Low arousal model
- Response modulation model
- Integrated emotion systems model

Theoretical Models for Causes of Psychopathy

Psychopathy and therapeutic pessimism clinical lore or clinical reality?

Beliefs that psychopathic individuals are immune or too challenging to treat continue to spread pessimistic views on the effectiveness of treatments for psychopathy. However, there is little scientific basis for this belief, and effective psychotherapy treatments for psychopathic individuals exist. 

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