sociopathic personality

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Explanation of "Sociopathic Personality"

Definition: A sociopathic personality refers to a type of personality disorder where a person shows a lack of morals, empathy, or guilt. This means they may not feel bad about hurting others and can act violently without any remorse. The term "sociopathic personality" is not as commonly used today; instead, professionals prefer the term "antisocial personality disorder."

Usage Instructions

• Noun: "sociopathic personality" is used to describe someone with this disorder.
• Context: It's often used in psychology, criminology, or discussions about behavior.

Example Sentences

1. "The detective suspected that the criminal had a sociopathic personality because of his cold and calculated actions."
2. "People with a sociopathic personality may struggle to form genuine relationships."

Advanced Usage

In more advanced discussions, you can talk about the characteristics of sociopathic personality, like impulsivity, deceitfulness, and irresponsibility. You might also discuss the social implications of this disorder, such as how it affects relationships and communities.

Word Variants

• Sociopathy (noun): The condition or behavior of having a sociopathic personality.
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (noun): The modern clinical term used instead of sociopathic personality.

Different Meanings

• Sociopath (noun): A person who has a sociopathic personality.
• Psychopath: Sometimes used interchangeably with sociopath, but it can refer to a more severe form of antisocial behavior.

Synonyms

• Antisocial personality
• Psychopathic personality (less common now)
• Amoral personality (focuses on lack of morals)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• "Cold as ice": This idiom describes someone who is emotionally unresponsive or lacks empathy, similar to someone with a sociopathic personality.
• "Behind the mask": This phrase can describe someone who appears normal but has a hidden sociopathic personality.

Summary

A sociopathic personality is a serious condition where a person lacks morals and empathy, often leading to harmful behaviors without guilt.

Academic

Noun

1. a personality disorder characterized by amorality and lack of affect; capable of violent acts without guilt feelings (`psychopathic personality' was once widely used but was superseded by `sociopathic personality' to indicate the social aspects of the disorder, but now `antisocial personality disorder' is the preferred term)

Synonyms

• antisocial personality disorder
• psychopathic personality