Psychopathic: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in a clinical context to describe an individual with a severe personality disorder characterized by persistent antisocial behavior, impaired empathy, and often criminal tendencies. It often implies a more severe and innate condition than 'sociopathic'.

• The doctor diagnosed the patient as psychopathic due to his violent tendencies and lack of remorse
• In movies, psychopathic characters are often portrayed as ruthless villains

Used to refer to a personality disorder characterized by a disregard for societal norms and the rights of others, with less emphasis on innate traits and more on environmental factors than 'psychopathic'. Sociopathic behavior is seen as more influenced by context and upbringing.

• The detective described the criminal's actions as sociopathic due to his manipulative and deceitful behavior
• Sociopathic individuals may appear charming but they often have a hidden agenda

Commonly used to describe behavior that is hostile, disruptive, or harmful to societal norms and values. It can refer to a general dislike for social interaction in everyday language, but in a clinical sense, it denotes behaviors that are overtly aggressive or harmful.

• John's antisocial behavior made it difficult for him to make friends
• People with antisocial tendencies often isolate themselves from social activities or do things that annoy others

Used to describe someone with a chronic mental disorder characterized by abnormal or violent social behavior. Often used in clinical, forensic, or psychological contexts. It has a strong negative connotation.

• The criminal displayed psychopathic tendencies that were concerning to the investigators.
• Her psychopathic behavior included a lack of empathy and impulsive decisions.

Describes someone with a personality disorder characterized by pervasive patterns of disregard for other people's rights, often associated with deceit and manipulation. It is often used interchangeably with 'psychopathic', though it can imply slightly less violent behavior. The term carries a strong negative connotation and is mostly used in clinical or forensic settings.

• The detective suspected that they were dealing with a sociopathic individual due to the calculated nature of the crimes.
• His sociopathic tendencies were evident in his callous treatment of others.

Describes someone who tends to avoid social interactions and does not conform to societal norms. It can be used in a psychological context to describe Antisocial Personality Disorder, but it is more commonly used in everyday language to describe socially withdrawn or inhospitable behavior. It can also have a negative connotation but is less severe than 'psychopathic'.

• He began to exhibit antisocial behavior, avoiding friends and family.
• Her antisocial tendencies made it difficult for her to form friendships at school.