Sociopaths

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Pages: 4

Leading psychological experts have concluded that a sociopath’s brain functions atypically compared to a normal brain. This occurs because their brain is constructed in a distinctive way, which caused them to perceive information differently. For example, the amygdala (part of human brain) is responsible for interpreting the emotions of others, while the orbitofrontal cortex processes that interpreted information to produce a correct corresponding behavior. However, according to an experiment done by Harenski (part of MIND Research Network), these parts of the brain in sociopaths function abnormally. Palmgren states that “If the connections between these regions [amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex] are damaged, the individual loses some of the …show more content…
With that said, parents play a crucial role throughout childhood because they can potentially trigger sociopathic tendencies in their child. For example, “Sociopaths’ parents tend to be cold and unloving to their children, teaching them only how to have distant relationships” (Goodman).These insensitive parents tend to have a broken relationship with their child. Furthermore, this lack of affection in a child’s first relationship leads to the development of antisocial and sociopathic traits because the child does not learn the process of creating a healthy and long lasting relationship with others (Goodman). To demonstrate the importance of these early relations and experiences, research from a study in 1999, “Noticed that sociopaths coming from unstable backgrounds commit more violent crimes than sociopaths from stable backgrounds” (Peterson). This quote reinforces the importance of secure environments for children to grow up and learn in. Much evidence has pointed to even lack of emotional attachments perhaps due to: child abuse, bad daycare, or change of parenteral figures can cause trauma leading to damaged personality. However, it is important to note that a small percentage of children with unloving parent have long term effects, and even fewer unattached children become sociopaths. In conclusion, it seems that while someone may be born with an abnormal brain …show more content…
For instance, as Loewen put it “Their [sociopaths] main trait is presenting themselves as having the same feelings and emotions as other people when in fact they lack this emotional capacity”. Although, harshly implying sociopaths have no emotional capacity whatsoever, Loewen’s main point in relation to how sociopaths typically having an inability to empathize with others is correct. However, because of this inadequacy to be empathetic, sociopaths often rely on testing others to decipher what emotions to display, in order to determine what is socially acceptable (Harvard University). Other commonly shared qualities of sociopaths are: charming, high intelligence, manipulate, impulsive behavior, and losing interest easily. These previously mentioned factors can combine to create a highly successful individual because in a sociopath these traits lead to the willingness to beat their colleagues or any potential competition. Similarly, sociopaths’ low tolerance for boredom, and impulsive behavior can lead to taking risky choices that most people would not even consider. Which, if the risk pay off can continue to help the sociopath to advance in his or her career. On the contrary, sociopaths could easily live on the outskirts of society, feeling they would rather live on their own than constantly trying to fit into social norms, which