Manipulative traits often develop over a lifetime, usually beginning in childhood, and become habitual. As such, psychopaths are essentially professionals at manipulating people with their false charm. In fact, despite their pathological lying, they often present themselves as exceptionally honest, good-hearted individuals. The scariest part is that people often believe it because they are such good actors.
In 2017, a study was conducted in Texas by Shannon Kelly and colleagues. They gave psychopaths a self-reported questionnaire measuring how kind and good a person they are, then asked their roommates—who were unaware of the psychopaths’ condition—to rate them. Unsurprisingly, the psychopaths rated themselves as highly honest and good-hearted, while their roommates also reported them as good people. This provides evidence of how well they have fooled others through manipulation.
Number 2: Multiple Sexual Partners and Short-Term Relationships
Psychopaths often have a pattern of unstable relationships and multiple one-night stands. Their need to relieve boredom often leads to risky sexual encounters without any intention of meeting again. Based on the previously listed traits, it’s no surprise that their relationships are short-lived. The psychopath may become bored and believe they could do better than their partner, discarding them first, or their partner may break up with them due to their abusive and toxic behaviors. Regardless, unstable relationships throughout their lifespan often indicate psychopathy.
Number 1: They Seek Revenge
Psychopaths seek revenge far more than any other personality disorder or mental illness found in others. Psychopathy predicts revenge more than any combination of the Big Five personality traits. The saying “don’t get mad, get even” is often the psychopath’s mantra. Interestingly, however, psychopaths report little aggression or emotional reaction when initially provoked. Instead, they usually act cool and collected, only to scheme and plan their revenge later—whether it’s ruining a reputation or damaging property. Hurting a psychopath’s ego often results in some form of revenge.
Sharing is caring!
Leave a Comment