Who is a sociopath, and do you have any signs of sociopathy?

Sociopathy (dissocial disorder or antisocial psychopathy) is a mental pathology of behavioral reactions. A person suffering from this syndrome is unable to form harmonious relationships with others. He does not distinguish between normal and illegal behavior, and does not adhere to the rules of decency accepted in society.

Who are sociopaths, people completely devoid of conscience, shame and guilt, constantly demonstrating aggressiveness and viciousness? This disorder is common in modern society. Sociopathy affects about 3% of women and 5% of men. The vast majority of them (80-85%) become criminals.

A sociopath is a potential criminal

History of antisocial psychopathy

Considering the phenomenon of sociopathy, scientists adopt the dogma according to which it is believed that every born personality initially has two categories of existence:

1. Biological. Man is the most intellectually advanced biological creature.
2. Social. The human personality lives in society from birth. By constantly communicating and contacting with their own kind, humanity has created writing, customs and culture.

For thousands of years, such a property as humanity has been formed and strengthened in the human gene pool. Modern man is a creature with initially formed habits of socialization, which include the perception of upbringing, moral norms, culture, and ethics.

A sociopath is a person who is unable to become a full-fledged member of society . According to psychiatrists, disturbances are noted already from conception. Due to an error in the formation of the gene system, hereditary memory does not “awaken”, the makings of social norms are not formed in the individual.

In simple words, a sociopath is a person who is sick at the genetic level and, due to a congenital disorder, is unable to socialize and adapt to the realities of everyday life.

Types of Sociopaths

People with dissocial disorder are either active or passive. Regardless of this, the sociopath's life priority is to satisfy his own needs. The only difference is that they achieve it in their own way.

Active type - does not hide the entity. Often provokes conflicts and is in a constant state of irritability. Gives the impression of an unprincipled, selfish and arrogant person, unable to control himself.

The passive type is latent, hiding its real “face”. Able to behave normally, communicate with others, and keep himself under control. It can still flare up unexpectedly, and only at such moments can one recognize a sociopath.

Life of a Sociopath

If we consider any mental disorder, we can see that disorders manifest themselves at different levels, depending on the age and living conditions of the patient. As for sociopathy, medium and high levels of pathology stand out more clearly. They are detected in a person from early childhood.

Child with dissocial disorder

A small sociopath is characterized by an increased level of aggression and self-esteem, bordering on powerful egocentrism. Aggression affects everyone. Such a child can calmly deliberately throw a stone at a baby, kick a dog/cat, steal money from his mother’s wallet, or try to steal something from a store.

To understand what a sociopath is, the definition of the disorder can be obtained by observing such a child. The first signs of sociopathy appear at different times:

1. Boys. The onset of the disease can be noticed in them already in preschool age.
2. Girls. But among representatives of the fairer sex, sociopathy begins to manifest itself during the transitional period of adolescence.

Little sociopaths actively oppose parents and family members and are deliberately disdainful of family values. Such children do not experience any remorse at all; they have no sense of shame. They do not feel guilty, even if they are caught stealing.

A sociopathic child is unfamiliar with shame, conscience and guilt.

Often, sociopathic children justify their misdeeds with contrived outside influence, carefully abdicating responsibility. Everyone is to blame, but not them. When observing aggressive children, it is necessary to be able to distinguish between genetic sociopathy and pedagogical neglect .

The manifestation of both directions is very similar. But the behavior of a pedagogically neglected child can be corrected with the help of experienced psychologists, teachers and parents. But a genetic disorder requires regular corrective sessions with child psychotherapists and the use of medications.

How is pathology diagnosed?

The diagnosis of “sociopathy” is made according to a number of basic criteria identified in the child:

1. Explaining committed illegal actions by the mistakes of others.
2. Complete denial of socially accepted rules of etiquette, laws, behavior and decency.
3. Inability to build and maintain friendly relationships with peers.
4. Ignoring other people's opinions, showing complete indifference to the feelings of other people.
5. Manifestation of sudden, uncontrollable aggression when it is impossible to get what you want and satisfy your own needs.
6. Complete absence of feelings of guilt and shame. A sociopathic child cannot evaluate his own behavior and give an adequate assessment of his misdeeds.

If at least three signs are present, doctors diagnose “dissocial disorder.” Such symptoms are constant; for sociopaths, antisocial behavior is the everyday norm. This poses a threat to the safety of not only the patient himself, but also those close to him.

If a disorder is detected, it is necessary to monitor the child for a long time. After all, innate traits of nature can be mistaken for sociopathy: impulsiveness, cruelty, irritability, selfishness.

Sociopathy very often occurs against the background of additional mental illnesses or becomes a consequence of more severe personality disorders (psychosis, schizophrenia).

Growing Up Sociopath

The older such a child becomes, the more sophisticated and thoughtful the disease manifests itself. The patient absolutely does not perceive attempts to reach his conscience. The only thing that can slow down an aggressor is fear of severe and severe punishment .

The patient acts according to the law of the animal pack: he did something bad, he earned pain (punishment). To avoid further pain, you need to refuse such an act in the future. These are conditioned reflexes characteristic of wild animals (trainers are guided by such reflexes).

A sociopath lives by the laws of an animal pack

How to recognize an adult sociopath

To understand that a sociopathic personality has crept into the ranks of friends or colleagues, pay attention to the characteristic signs of a sociopath:

Lack of morality . This sign manifests itself in a love of violence, torture, and bullying. When a sociopath witnesses a tragedy happening to his loved ones, he does not feel compassion or pity. Such a person cannot sympathize and never admits guilt.

Irresponsibility . Vividly manifested in teamwork. A sick person always thinks only about himself. In achieving his goal, he will resort to lying, stealing and other recklessness. It is impossible to come to an agreement with him and there is no need to count on a responsible approach to work.

Tendency to lie . Sociopathic individuals are distinguished by highly developed intelligence. The older sociopaths become, the more subtle and sophisticated their lies become. To realize his plans, the patient uses all his innate ability to charm and charm. And he's no stranger to acting.

A sociopath, if desired, is able to win over any person and instill in him the desired thought.

High level of narcissism . For someone with antisocial disorder, self-enjoyment is very important. Such people do not perceive and react aggressively to any (even mild and unobtrusive) criticism. They demand constant praise and admiration, causing such a reaction by any means.

Desire to take risks .
Sociopaths have an uncontrollable appetite for risk. They love dangerous, life-threatening actions and behaviors. A simple peaceful life for such a person is boring and uninteresting. Adult sociopaths use sexual overtones to create risky situations. They will try to get the thrill by any means.

How to recognize sociopathy in adolescence

This begins to manifest itself in adolescence, around 14-16 years. This is clearly visible in relationships with peers. A sociopath can easily become an outcast among his classmates. He often does poorly at school, has unsatisfactory behavior, and his parents are called to the principal.

It is difficult for such people to sit in one place for an entire lesson. They do not perceive the norms of society and do not follow general rules.

If such a teenager is caught in some immoral and illegal act, he will still feel absolutely no guilt. He immediately begins to get out and come up with explanations. Their ability to lie and get out soon rises to such a level that even people who constantly communicate with them will not be able to understand when they are lying and when they are telling the truth.

The feeling of guilt is the feedback that allows a person not to deviate too much from socially accepted behavior. When the feeling of guilt is attrited, there is no feedback that corrects behavior. social pathology arises . Well, the term SocioPat is precisely derived from this phrase (a person suffering from social pathology).

The dangers of sociopathy

Dissocial disorder is not always the cause of a person’s withdrawal from society. On the contrary, sociopaths, striving for worship and adoration, become excellent manipulators. They are seductive, cunning and intelligent.

In the process of long-term communication, a sociopathic personality identifies the vulnerabilities of the interlocutor and subsequently uses them for his own benefit. Many famous serial killers are representatives of the class of sociopaths:

• Chikatilo (one of the most famous sadistic maniacs of the 20th century has more than 60 victims);
• Jeffrey Dahmer (US serial killer responsible for the deaths of more than 20 people, killed with extreme brutality);
• John Gacy (the famous American “killer clown” who took the lives of more than 30 young men and teenagers).

They successfully charmed future victims and gained their trust. They were then lured into traps and killed mercilessly. Famous historical figures-tyrants are also classified as sociopaths: Caligula, Hitler, Stalin.

People with sociopathic disorder can often be found among:

Religious fanatics . Sociopaths, with their inherent egocentrism and addiction to violence, often create sects and teachings. Guided by their own ego, such “gurus” reshape accepted religious teachings, creating their own philosophical concepts. Violence, murder, and sadism often flourish in these sects.

Perfectly mastering eloquence, sociopathic sectarians, by the power of their persuasion, subjugate the masses of people, forcing them to carry out their plans.

Lovelace scammers . The ability to charm any person plays into the hands of sociopaths who want to live at the expense of others. Such people quickly fall in love with women, potential victims. Having robbed her dry, the sociopaths abandon her in pursuit of their next passion. The pain and confusion of an abandoned and betrayed lover gives sociopaths incredible pleasure.

Sociopaths can pretend to be anyone to achieve their goal.

Causes of sociopathy

Dissocial disorder has not been fully studied, and specific causes have not been identified.

Psychologists have different opinions:

1. Genetics. Sociopathy can be inherited or is a genetic defect.
2. Upbringing. Another group of psychologists believes that the emergence of sociopathy is a consequence of improper upbringing or the absence of it at all. Problems arise with the outside world, the inability to control aggression and show compassion for others, because no one has ever felt sorry for him.
3. Imitation. Someone in the family or social circle with authority behaves this way. And a weak person, wittingly or unwittingly, begins to imitate behavior in order to have the same power over other people.
4. Clinical disorders (schizophrenia, mental retardation, psychosis) or traumatic brain injury.

A mental disorder can be caused by several factors at the same time. According to statistics, men become sociopaths more often than women.

How to distinguish sociopathy from social phobia

The meaning of the word sociopath is often confused with social phobia. Social phobia also refers to psychoneurological diseases. But the behavior patterns of a sociopath and a social phobe are diametrically opposed. Social phobes are distinguished by the following characteristics:

1. They are afraid to speak in front of large numbers of people.
2. They are not at all prone to displays of aggression and are able to sympathize with the people around them.
3. They can get rid of their phobias on their own by training willpower and cultivating the missing qualities.
4. They are prone to panic attacks, which can be dealt with by experienced psychologists (a psychiatrist and psychotherapist work with sociopaths).
5. They are afraid to start conversations with strangers (in a store, at work). They are even afraid to make an important call. Social phobes simply don't know how to start a conversation.

Diagnostics. How to recognize a sociopath?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) classifies APD into a number of personality and behavioral traits that describe how a person functions, how he or she relates to others, and how these beliefs express themselves through actions.

Self-functional characteristics

are those that reflect what a person is like and how that person views their actions or goals. To be diagnosed with APD, you must demonstrate all of the following characteristics:

1. Self-centeredness or egocentrism
2. Achieving self-esteem of power, personal gain, or pleasure
3. Setting goals based on personal satisfaction, with little regard to law or ethics

Interpersonal characteristics

are those that describe how a person interacts with other people in general. You must also exhibit these symptoms to be diagnosed with APD:

1. Lack of empathy for the suffering or distress of others, or when faced with the pain or anger of people they manipulate
2. Inability to have truly mutually emotionally intimate relationships due to instincts of control (dominance or intimidation), coercion, or deception

Read the topic: how to recognize deception by facial expressions

Behavioral characteristics

complement the clinical diagnosis by describing the path the person will follow to control, coerce or deceive, for example:

1. Emotional manipulation of others, such as pretending to be interested in someone simply to achieve a goal
2. Lying as a means to gain social status or advantage, such as declaring yourself a decorated war hero when you have never served
3. React with callousness, aggression, ruthlessness, or even sadism when faced with the consequences of your actions
4. Constant anger or irritability even over small things, as well as mean, spiteful behavior
5. Strong tendency to ignore obligations, promises and agreements, including financial ones
6. Making decisions on the spur of the moment with little regard for consequences to achieve the immediate goal
7. Difficulty making plans, preferring to believe that they can quickly respond to problems that arise
8. Risk taking, becoming easily bored, and the ability to ignore personal boundaries and justify even the most outrageous actions
9. It is not uncommon for someone with APD to be involved in repeated fights or assaults.

What to do if you are surrounded by a sociopath

Child . If a child suffers from sociopathic disorder, parents should immediately seek help from a child psychotherapist. A little sociopath requires careful diagnosis and long-term correctional work to normalize behavior. Correction is carried out with the direct participation of teachers and parents.

Acquaintance (colleague) . If you are “lucky enough” to encounter a sick person in your immediate environment, you should distance yourself from such a person. Keep all contact and communication to a minimum . Remember that it is impossible to appeal to his conscience and try to re-educate him. This is a sick man.

Boss . The best solution would be to change jobs. If it is impossible and unprofitable to change services, make adjustments to your communication with such management. Don’t say anything personal or unnecessary, don’t give in to his emotions and desire to subjugate.

Sociopathy in different groups of people

Mental health problems manifest themselves differently among genders.

In men, sociopathy manifests itself in the form of despotism, which they direct at people weaker than them. Acting antisocially is a habitual way of life for them, and they almost always do bad things intentionally. Causing physical and moral pain to others gives them pleasure. Asocial men have been aggressive since childhood.

The tendency to cheat or betray your spouse, blaming her for it, is another sign of a sociopath. Obtaining moral satisfaction from risky actions alone or with someone else. Narcissists, chronic liars, who react irritably or aggressively to resistance. They believe that they have all the rights over the people around them and can dispose of them.

Sociopathic men, openly violating generally accepted rules, challenge the world around them. Characteristic qualities are the inability to control impulses, take responsibility for one’s actions and shift it to other people.

More than 9,000 people have gotten rid of their psychological problems using this technique.

Not every sociopath becomes a monster; the transformation is accompanied by other psychological disorders (schizophrenia, psychosis). Therefore, having recognized a sick person, you do not need to immediately put a “stigma”; it is enough to be attentive to his words and actions.

In women, sociopathy manifests itself more covertly. A woman who cannot empathize and sympathize is a sociopath; she considers her needs to be her only needs. He simply does not notice the desires of others. Children suffer the most from such women, because the psychology of a sociopath is as follows: to assert oneself at the expense of the weak. They rarely resort to physical violence; they mostly destroy the environment morally. We can say that female sociopathy is insensitivity, a lack of emotions inherent in nature. You will never feel comfortable and cozy with such a woman.

Sociopathy from a medical point of view

Sociopathy is a mental illness of a genetic nature. Dangerous and serious personality disorder. To understand how to treat a patient, it is necessary to assess the depth of the disorder and identify the cause of the disease.

There are many opinions about the causes of sociopathy.

How do people become sociopaths?

Psychiatrists, studying the origins of the disease, are inclined to conclude that the following situations become the trigger in the development of sociopathy:

• criminal environment;
• congenital gene mutation;
• excessive parental care;
• physical brain injuries;
• drug addiction and alcoholism of parents;
• lack of education and proper attention;
• traumatic childhood events of a social nature (loss of loved ones, ending up in an orphanage);
• hereditary factors (in the presence of blood relatives with severe mental disorders).

Types of antisocial psychopathy

Sociopathy is a serious disease that accompanies a person throughout his life . The quality of the patient’s existence and the perception of him by those around him directly depends on the category of mental pathology. Sociopathy is divided into two types:

Active . This type of mental disorder is characterized by the absence of any kind of restrictions in the actions of a sociopath. Such patients live guided only by their own desires, not paying attention to the needs of others.

A highly active or domineering sociopath is particularly cunning and thoughtful. He may not break laws if he feels some benefit from this, and even demonstrates obedient and responsible behavior.

Patients with an active form of sociopathy have a tendency towards crime and complete social disorientation. Cinematographers have created images of active sociopaths: remember Dr. House, Sherlock Holmes (played by Benedict Cumberbatch). These heroes are active sociopaths.

Passive . A passive sociopath is a more hidden personality in the manifestation of mental illness. Such a patient is characterized by manipulation, thoughtful steps in communicating with people without violating accepted laws. They tend to create their own traditions and restrictions.

Despite the lack of conscience, compassion and feelings of guilt, these individuals can get along in society, partially following generally accepted rules.

Is psychopath synonymous with sociopath?

It probably became a little clearer. But there is another very close concept - a psychopath. How is a sociopath different from a psychopath, if at all? Who is a psychopath?

Previously, these concepts were distinguished. They said that a psychopath is a person who inherited a disease, and was not raised incorrectly. One of the main reasons was the underdevelopment of the part of the brain (limbic system), which is responsible for emotions and empathy (the ability to empathize with other people).

This conclusion was made due to the fact that while a sociopath can show aggressiveness and anger, a psychopath cannot. But they both have no empathy for the people around them. Because of this, they most often end up in prison, unable to control their behavior.

According to the version of the modern reference book DSM-5, sociopathy and psychopathy have no difference and belong to dissocial personality disorder. These two concepts exist only in colloquial speech and mass media for understanding by the audience, or the vividness of the image.

Treatment of sociopathy

Treatment of sociopathic mental disorder is a complex and difficult task. The difficulty lies in the fact that a sociopath does not see any problems at all, and considers his antisocial behavior to be completely normal.

But even if such a person asks for help, the psychotherapist has difficulties in establishing a trusting relationship with the patient . They are necessary for a successful adjustment. It is difficult for a sociopath to maintain a routine and obey recommendations. When carrying out corrective treatment, doctors apply two main rules:

1. The presence of an experienced psychiatrist is mandatory.
2. Initiation into the results of therapy of a minimal amount of the patient’s environment. This is done to strengthen the patient’s trust in the treating specialist.

When treating a sociopath, doctors also resort to medication. The patient is prescribed antidepressants, sedatives and hormonal drugs. All aggressive medications are prescribed in small doses so as not to cause addiction in a person.

How to behave if your loved one is a sociopath

Who is a sociopath: 10 signs of the disorder Photo: Depositphotos
It happens that it is impossible to avoid contact with such people. For example, if the sociopath is a close relative. In such a situation, you need to behave correctly so as not to become a victim of a person with antisocial disorder.

The main rule is not to try to teach them compassion or pressure them into feelings of guilt or shame, because sociopaths are not capable of these emotions. Such people can only be controlled through fear and demonstration of superiority. Using the vocabulary of exploitation will be beneficial for you.

In a relationship with a sociopath, you need to strictly pronounce each point of interaction and define clear boundaries. No concessions, pity or condescension. They do not accept normal human relations, so the softer you are towards them, the worse they are towards you.

The ideal solution is to convince a loved one to undergo psychotherapy.

Highly active sociopath

A highly active (active) sociopath is the most dangerous form of this pathology. These are people who professionally hide their real emotions and needs behind a mask of universal attention and good nature. They know how to present themselves “in all their glory”, easily endear themselves, and attract attention. Highly active sociopaths love to be praised, their superiority emphasized, and their egos stroked.

As soon as resistance or rejection of their views, behavior, and actions is encountered, undisguised aggression and anger appear. In this state, the sociopath no longer hides his hatred of the world and others, begins to speak sharply, gesticulate, and openly protest.

The apogee of negativity is reached when fists and other objects that can cause damage to health and property are used . It is among highly active sociopaths that the percentage of criminals who serve their sentences more than once is high. Often, a highly active sociopath does not hide his characteristics, then a person appears before society, distinguished by the absence of principles of morality and morality, arrogance, and cruelty.

In contrast, passive sociopaths can maintain stable relationships with representatives of society for a long time, control their inclinations, adapting to generally accepted norms. Among passive sociopaths, there is a high percentage of those who were able to start relationships and start a family.

Sociopathy

Sociopathy is a mental personality disorder aimed at complete rejection of the social system.

Such behavior in psychology is also called “asocial” or “dissocial”; a person suffering from sociopathy does not accept the norms and rules established in society. Sometimes sociopathy is confused with social phobia, which is extremely false.

With social phobia, a person simply experiences difficulties in communicating, is afraid to say something, avoids publicity, but does not feel hatred towards people and society. With sociopathy it’s just the opposite.

Scientists and psychologists have differing opinions regarding the development of sociopathy. Some researchers argue that sociopathy develops as a result of genetic transformations during intrauterine development, and therefore can be considered a congenital disorder.

Other scientists (and the majority of them) consider sociopathy an acquired pathology that developed as a result of psychological trauma, physical or moral violence. Most often, the development of sociopathy is attributed to childhood or adolescence.

Sociopathy affects the development of processes of human disharmony in the field of perception of reality and others, thinking and comprehension of current events, as well as socialization.

Famous sociopaths

There are famous sociopaths among historical figures and contemporaries.

Gaius Julius Caesar, or Caligula, the Roman emperor, was distinguished by his cruelty and composure. Ancient authors assessed him as a voluptuous tyrant-madman. During the four years of ruling the empire, his policies alienated the ruling class of the slave-owning class. He increased treasury expenses for construction and established ideas about what an empire should be like.

One of the famous personalities whose actions shook almost the whole world is Adolf Hitler. The disdain with which he exterminated everyone who, in his opinion, was not worthy of existing is a clear sign of sociopathy. And the lack of conscience and feelings of guilt contributed to gaining power. Only the superior sociopath Joseph Stalin was able to adequately resist Hitler.

Josef Mengele was a doctor from Auschwitz who conducted experiments on people. The number of people maimed exceeds 10,000. Despite the nickname "White Angel", his decisions were cruel. To determine how many times a person's bones could heal after being broken, he broke children's legs, let the bones heal, then broke them again. Never used anesthesia, stitched twins together and tried to change the color of the iris through chemical elements.

The famous serial maniac, cannibal Andrei Chikatilo kept the entire Soviet Union in fear. He has more than 50 victims, whom he tortured for a long time, slowly killing. The youngest was only seven years old, the oldest was 49. “Addiction” did not prevent him from living a family life and becoming the father of two children. The wife did not notice her husband’s abnormal behavior until recently. The psychotherapist who studied Chikatilo believed that he had a split personality: the first lived with his wife and children and was not able to kill a chicken, the second brutally raped, killed, chopped, bit and ate his victims. Cold-bloodedly luring, manipulating desires. Moreover, he did not touch those who refused the offer to go with him, but switched to searching for a new victim.

Jeffrey Dahmer is a cannibal from Milwaukee. Confessed to 17 murders. He lured victims to his home under plausible pretexts, drugged them, raped them, killed them, and dismembered them. During his arrest, a huge number of body parts and photographs of mutilated victims were found in his apartment. He showed no signs of inappropriate behavior; he is classified as a sociopath.

John Gacy - killed 33 people, including teenagers. After the arrest, 29 bodies were found on the territory of his house, four of which he threw into the river. He was sentenced to death, the residents of Chicago celebrated what was happening during the execution of the sentence, and after that they organized a city holiday.

All of these people are examples of sociopathy and other related mental disorders at their maximum. Many people with dissocial disorder manage to exist in society without causing such terrible harm to people.

Sociopaths know right from wrong, but do not feel the emotional need to conform to the rules of behavior that conforms to social standards.

M. Thomas

Features of sociopaths

Sociopathy is not the result of belonging to any age, gender group, or social status. The main characteristic of people with such a deviation is the lack of inclination to sympathize, empathize and feel guilty. It is this feature that distinguishes them from misanthropes, who also hate human society, but this is not associated with any mental disorders.

In most cases, sociopaths act only in accordance with their own desires, so they are often attributed the character trait of irresponsibility, because they are obligated only to themselves, and the needs of others are completely indifferent to them. Many of them are inclined to get their way by any means, including the use of force.

You can consult with a psychotherapist right now around the clock. It is possible for a doctor to visit your home, which is essential if the behavior of a sociopath does not fit within any reasonable framework. Call us, we can help right now!

Rules for dealing with a sociopath

If signs of a dissocial disorder were noticed in a colleague or acquaintance, then you can calmly, gradually distance yourself from him.

If a sociopath is your boss and you don’t want to change your job, then it’s important to follow a few tips:

• keep the maximum possible distance;
• do not talk about personal topics;
• carefully check the documentation before delivery;
• do not provoke a conflict (the main thing to remember is that for a sociopath, a small thing is enough for an outburst);
• keep your emotions under total control;
• do not succumb to provocations, manipulations, do not be afraid.

It is advisable to stay away from a sociopath, literally and figuratively. If you cannot avoid communicating with an unhealthy person in this way, then you can use one of the options for the development of events.

1. For a sociopath to voluntarily lag behind, you need to communicate as boringly as possible. Calmness and emotionlessness are the key to saying goodbye to a sociopath.
2. This option completely contradicts the previous one. An incessant stream of words without the opportunity for him to add anything of his own will also push away a sociopath. The main thing is not to overdo it and not provoke him into irritability or aggression.
3. Find a stronger accomplice - Sociopaths fear people stronger than themselves. Therefore, when confronted with a strong spirit, he himself will withdraw from communication.

If you still cannot limit yourself, then you need to be careful not to give the sociopath the desired reaction to his actions. Do not accept his help, do important actions while he is not around. Do not give the sociopath reasons and leverage for manipulation. If he feels superior, it will be even more difficult to protect himself from him.

- Describe yourself.

- White fluffy obnoxious creature.

Max Razin