What are some characteristics of a sociopath?

lack of empathy is a big one

I don’t actually know them, but I’ve heard that Edward Cullen from the “Twilight” series shows six out of nine of them.

I’ve read no remorse, intelligent, focused, charming to get their way, ruthless if they don’t.

Read this.

@PacificToast
He matches #‘s 2,4,5,9,10,13,14,15 in Trillian’s link to varying degrees.

Specific traits can be used in a diagnosis, but they don’t alone define a sociopath. Even with a diagnosis from a psych doctor, I’m sure there’s huge variations in type and severity. It’s the human brain we’re talking about. Avoid throwing labels on things you don’t have to; especially your own personality.

Now, if you enjoy killing people for the fun of it and feel no remorse or something fucked up like that, then you can probably start being labeled.

As far as I can determine, even a trained phychologist would have trouble with a definitive answer to this question. It is very difficult to determine.

That list describes me a lot. I could easily sneak up behind you and snap your neck and not care at all. I could watch my whole school be shot in the face except me and I wouldn’t care.

@Trillian link is useful to give the flavour of what sociopaths are like. There are sources that are more technical and better suited for diagnostic purposes when used by a clinician.

One of the reasons why sociopaths are dangerous and difficult to treat is that their behaviour gets worse when they treated with traditional talk therapy that reduces anxiety and makes people feel more comfortable with who they are and what they desire.

Listening to Glenn Beck.

More like missing qualities you’d expect from another person than having qualities you notice. Responses seem off especially as you get to know them better.