How to communicate with a psychopath: expert advice. Signs of a psychopath

June 5, 2019
Mental disorders
Tamila Gresko

Psychopaths are often called “wolves in sheep’s clothing.” And no wonder, since they love to “hunt” others. How to communicate with a psychopath? How to build a relationship if your colleague or family member turns out to be a person with this mental disorder? Mostly these questions are of interest to kind and sympathetic people. It is precisely this category that psychopaths focus on. It has been noted that after communicating with such a person, self-esteem noticeably decreases. But he won't stop there. You will be deprived of strength and resources endlessly. Therefore, it is advisable for you to protect yourself. It is enough to know how to behave with a psychopath. Information about this mental disorder, the causes that contributed to the development of the pathology, signs and expert advice are contained in this article.

About the disorder

What is psychopathy? To know how to communicate with a psychopath, you should familiarize yourself with this pathology. This term is translated from Greek as “soul” (psyhe) and “suffering” (pathos). Psychopathy is a congenital or acquired disorder in the functioning of the higher nervous system. As a result, the volitional character traits of a person are deformed, which define him as an individual in society. Psychopathic disorder is the line between a healthy psyche and pathology. This does not mean that a psychopath must be weak-minded or have low intelligence. Quite the contrary, it is predominantly people with this pathology who successfully realize themselves in business and creativity.

About behavior

In a person with this pathology, negative emotions often predominate. According to experts, psychopaths can be very vulnerable in early childhood. Over the years, all feelings are completely repressed. Due to his very unrestrained character, it is very difficult for a psychopath to adapt to society. A person with a mental disorder often embellishes circumstances and engages in self-hypnosis. As a result, based on his own attitudes, he will enter into various conflicts. His enemies can be both colleagues at work and household members. It should be noted his complete indifference. Such a person is not at all interested in the feelings and problems of other people. He often neglects the rules accepted in society and universal human laws.

A psychopathic person often displays aggression and violence to satisfy his needs. In this case, the psychopath will not feel guilty. Even if he is punished for what he did, he will not draw any conclusions for himself. The fact is that a psychopathic person will not analyze his own mistakes and learn from experience. He firmly believes that he always does the right thing. According to experts, it is very difficult to build a normal relationship with a psychopath. It is important to remember that a person with such a disorder is first and foremost an egoist. In a relationship with you, he will always strive to take a leading position. At the same time, due to his emotional imbalance, he is cowardly. It is possible that in a certain situation he will easily betray you. Men with this pathology carefully think through their tactics and, if necessary, disguise themselves perfectly. They may even seem charming and achieve great success at work. If the communication does not last long, then you are unlikely to recognize a psychopathic personality in him. As a result, the woman ends up in a network. Soon the true face of the chosen one will appear in the form of domestic violence, which cannot be eradicated.

Breakup rules

If life has begun to resemble a minefield where every step is risky, there is no need to delay the breakup. This will not be easy to do, since the psychopathic husband will try to show all his charm. Manipulation will be used again: depictions of repentance, requests for forgiveness, romantic behavior. If the partner is unwilling to give in, he will begin to threaten, and may even put what he says into practice. Fear often keeps women close to such husbands.

If a woman nevertheless decides to break up, she must remember that she must act very carefully, otherwise there is a risk of running into his uncontrollable aggression. It is best to start a conversation in a public place or in the presence of loved ones. It is dangerous to be alone with him, and he will not show aggression in public.

If a man allowed himself to be assaulted, you should not talk to him about divorce in person at all. You need to secretly pack your things and leave the house, informing him of the breakup by phone or by letter. A personal meeting will certainly end in violence.

No matter how a relationship with a psychopathic man develops, a woman must decide for herself how appropriate it is. This diagnosis does not always imply aggression. You can learn to live with such a person and even benefit, but it all depends on how much the woman is ready to sacrifice herself. In addition, if a man himself is aware of his illness, then there is a chance to correct his behavior.

How to recognize a psychopath?

Lacking networking skills, such individuals are not friends with anyone. It is considered normal for a psychopath to ignore generally accepted norms of behavior. This is how they alienate people. Of course, they can masterfully imitate feelings, but there are the following signs of a psychopath that can be identified:

The duration of sleep for such a person is very short.
A psychopath does not feel a sense of recognition or gratitude.
They are vindictive.
Inconsistent. They often have a lot of started and unfinished tasks.
They lie constantly.
Psychopaths do not have long-term love relationships.
Prone to sexual perversions.
Thinking outside the box.

Among the various signs of a psychopath, one should note his penchant for extreme activities. The fact is that such a person does not have a danger reflex. As a result, he may expose both himself and others to unnecessary risks. How to recognize a psychopath? According to experts, a person with this pathology is a good actor. Depending on the situation and personal needs, he will change masks and skillfully dissemble. A similar pathology is characteristic of the fair sex. Men find such women interesting at first. Later they don’t know how to live with a psychopath. It turns out that the chosen one is very selfish, cold and neglects the best feelings. Men who do not know how to communicate with a psychopath in the family should understand the classification of this pathology.

Varieties

Psychopathy is a personality disorder. If a healthy person’s behavior is determined by social motives and norms, then a psychopath is not familiar with these concepts, he lives and acts as he sees fit, and does not suffer from feelings of guilt. Psychopaths with a severe form of this disorder are not afraid of criminal penalties and are capable of repeatedly committing crimes. A person with a mild manifestation of this disorder can control himself, calmly gains trust, and creates the image of a benevolent person. At the same time, he is capable of destroying loved ones using cunning, sophisticated methods, resorting to envy, jealousy and a sense of superiority.

There are seven main types of psychopathy.

Schizoid. Characterized by the presence of isolation, immersion in one’s own world, insensitivity towards other people, isolation from others. There are difficulties with communication, there is a lack of interest in the thoughts of others. Such a man will not know what to talk about with his wife. He may have a hobby, but only one that requires privacy, in particular, collecting, a single sport.
Sociopath. A man of this type lacks self-control; he is characterized by a tendency to sort things out and irritability. Often among such people there are lawbreakers. It is difficult for such a person to adhere to restrictions. May become dependent.
Asthenic. One of the safest types of psychopaths to be around. Such a person is characterized by indecision, suspiciousness, passive behavior, regular introspection, and sensitivity towards himself. Such a man is a perfectionist, quickly runs out of steam, and feels stressed under any load. In a family, such a person will take the place of a subordinate, can talk about his love for his wife, and portray sincere affection.
Hysterical. The first manifestations appear in childhood, the boy begins to attract attention to his person and protests against other leaders. Such a man needs his wife to show him attention. If he experiences a lack of warmth from his wife, minor quarrels, jealousy, and flirting on the side arise. For such a man, giving up his own opinion is tantamount to suicide.
Paranoid. Characterized by the presence of pressure, aggressiveness, and narrowed horizons. Such a person will put pressure on loved ones and control their actions. A relationship with such a man can only be normal if the woman agrees with his point of view.
Affective. Characterized by changeable mood, a change from a cheerful disposition to a gloomy one.
Mixed. A psychopath who combines manifestations of various types of psychopathy.

About the excitable type

Girls with this pathology are characterized by strong emotional reactions and a predisposition to alcoholic beverages. The excitable type of psychopathy involves high irritability and a tendency to aggression. Attacks of rage come very quickly. There may be several reasons for this. Often such women are not satisfied with what is happening around them, they find fault with everything and start an argument. They are very stubborn, and therefore, when the angry mood passes, they will not suffer from remorse.

About the characteristics of psychopaths

Regardless of the type of pathology, men with this disorder are characterized by deceit, high impulsiveness (often they cannot control themselves), and inability to sympathize and repent. Such a person is very resistant to social infection. This is due to a lack of reflection and empathy. Therefore, a psychopath cannot correctly assess the consequences of his actions. The instinct of self-preservation and deep emotions are also not characteristic of them. He feels more comfortable in the dark, and therefore is more active at night. Prefers strong drinks, as well as bitter and sour foods. If someone disagrees with him and goes against him, he will cause irritation and aggression in the psychopath. The presence of the above qualities helps such people achieve their goals. A psychopath, easily manipulating others, can quickly make a career for himself. Such a man can be a successful lawyer, police officer, bank employee, doctor and journalist.

About hysterical

Women of the hysterical type with frequent mood swings have a very rich imagination. Such a person is distinguished by theatrical, feigned behavior. Girls with this pathology demonstrate their inner world to others, endow themselves with non-existent qualities, and exaggerate a lot. They mostly embellish their emotions, which they are actually unable to experience. According to psychologists, the hysterical type will often indulge in dreams that replace reality.

Modern methods of getting rid of the problem

Diagnosis of psychopathy is carried out using an electroencephalogram. But there is no cure for this disease. The main therapy can only be considered recognition of one’s own diagnosis, followed by socialization and providing all possible support in overcoming the pathology. Mild and unexpressed forms are corrected with psychological help; observation by a psychotherapist is strongly recommended. In severe forms of psychopathy, it is necessary to take sedatives, but men most often refuse this.

The most effective treatments for the disorder include:

Taking psychotropic drugs, including antidepressants and tranquilizers. For the hysterical type, neuroleptics (Aminazine) are effective. Sociopaths are recommended to take Sonapax or Neuleptil, and asthenics will benefit from stimulants or mild herbal antidepressants. Sedative neuroleptics help cope with insomnia (Chlorprothixene).
Haloperidol is used to suppress anger and aggression.
Mood swings are controlled with anticonvulsants (carbamazepine).
Hypnosis, auto-training, meditation, conversations. Going to a psychologist and family therapy are effective.

Drugs, as a rule, are used only for persistent emotional disturbances, including delusions and threatening behavior. The selection of medication is carried out only by a doctor and strictly individually. Even strong medications will not eliminate a personality disorder, but they will reduce the damage caused by its manifestation.

Before taking medications and during the course, you should not drink alcohol or drugs. You should also refrain from driving a car or operating other complex equipment.

Regardless of the severity of the mental disorder, it is recommended to take immunomodulators, multivitamins, and antioxidants.

About paranoid

According to psychologists, this type of psychopathy in women is especially pronounced after 25 years. If you connect your life with just such a person, you will soon wonder how to communicate with a psychopathic woman? Not surprising, since girls with this pathology are very jealous and conflict-ridden. They can create a scandal anywhere. The peculiarity of this pathology is that representatives of the fair sex are filled with overvalued ideas that crowd out all other emotions and experiences. As a result, the girl becomes a real fanatic and will seek justice by any means necessary. You should know that a person with this mental disorder is extremely observant, meticulous and curious. It is noteworthy that a psychopath will see in everything an insidious plan against himself. If you don't know how to communicate with a psychopath, just don't show emotion. This will prevent him from manipulating your feelings.

Types of psychopathy in men

According to summarized data from international studies, more than 10% of the entire population of the planet suffers from personality disorders, which makes this problem worthy of the close attention of leading psychiatrists and clinical psychologists. During the processing of the information received, many gender differences were discovered, taking into account the prevalence of various types of psychopathy among men and women.

Men “lead” in:

dissocial;
parainodal;
narcissistic;
uncast;
schizoid;
schizotypal disorders.

Women are characterized by a predominance of emotionally unstable, hysterical and dependent types.

It follows from this that you can meet psychopathic men in everyday life much more often than women. And their interaction with others is expressed in different ways. Women are characterized by moral, psychological “pressure,” while psychopathy in men can be expressed in very severe pressure on a partner, sometimes on the verge of physical violence.

About women of the schizoid type

As in the case of hysterical psychopathy, schizoid girls are divorced from reality. However, they behave very secretly. In general, this type is characterized by increased vulnerability, impressionability, excessive sensitivity and isolation. When communicating with such a person, his cold attitude towards others is striking. The problems of other people are also not interesting to a schizoid. Thanks to an unconventional type of thinking and a willingness to go above and beyond, women with this pathology quickly make careers and achieve success. A schizoid girl rarely starts relationships with the opposite sex. However, if this happened, then she is prone to self-sacrifice.

About affective disorder

This category combines psychopaths of hyper- and hypothymic types. Women of the first type can be recognized by high activity, excessive self-confidence, high mood and optimism. It is not advisable to do any business with a hyperthymic psychopath, since such girls may lie and not keep their promises. The complete opposite of the first is a hypothymic psychopath. Women with this mental disorder are constantly despondent and depressed and look at life pessimistically. The self-esteem of girls of the hypothymic type is underestimated. In addition, they are very unsociable and unhappy with everything.

Causes of disorders

Mental pathology can be congenital or acquired at an early age. In the latter case, the social environment in which the formation of personality took place plays an important role. If the factors were unfavorable, then the child was more likely to become a psychopath. The appearance of the disorder can also be caused by the following pathological abnormalities:

As a result of injury to the embryo or during childbirth.
After infectious diseases.
The presence of congenital defects in the nervous system.
If a person has a genetic predisposition.
If there is even one alcoholic in the family.

After a brain injury, the brain may begin to function differently, resulting in a personality disorder. Overprotection, as well as a complete lack of attention from parents, also in most cases gives impetus to the progression of pathology. This is explained by the fact that a child in conditions of permissiveness, surrounded by care, loses independence and becomes spoiled. Having matured, such an individual will have too high self-esteem.

What is psychopathy

Psychopathy is a personality disorder in which persistent behavioral disturbances and persistent character changes are noted. Due to violations, difficulties arise in social and personal adaptation. About 10% of people suffer from psychopathy.

Types of psychopathy:

Schizotypal, dissocial, anxiety and narcissistic disorders are more common in men.

Psychopaths come from dysfunctional families where the parents did not accept the child, deprived him of social interaction, love and care, suppressed and raped him (primarily psychologically). In addition, acquired pathology occurs against the background of head injuries, alcoholism and drug addiction of the future psychopath. The second factor is the mother’s mental disorders and addictions such as alcoholism, infections during pregnancy (then psychopathy is a congenital pathology).

When people talk about psychopathy, they often mean only one type - dissocial disorder. Let's talk about it in more detail.

How to communicate with a psychopath?

If it so happens that you are forced to communicate with a person who has been diagnosed with a mental disorder, adhere to the following rules:

Don't show emotion. When the opportunity arises, the psychopath will certainly use them for his own purposes. There is no need to be afraid of such people, because a person with this pathology is not always a maniac. Of course, there is some truth in this, since among serial killers the largest percentage are psychopaths. But, according to experts, most of these individuals try not to reveal themselves. However, always be on guard.

Avoid conflicts. To do this, you will need to reduce the level of your own aggression. If the situation escalates, do not get into a fight.
Stay confident. Most likely, the psychopath will want to piss you off and will begin to counterattack. Do not give in to provocations, but look calmly and directly. The voice should be firm, but not loud. If such a person sees that you are irritated or afraid, he will begin to manipulate you. This way your weakness will be used against you. It is possible that a psychopath will offer his help. It should not be accepted under any circumstances. Otherwise, this will give the psychopath a reason to go on the offensive again.
Eliminate contacts. It will be much easier to do this if you only encounter a psychopathic personality at work. It’s worse if a person close to you belongs to this category. It's easier to end a fleeting romance. You can refer to high employment. Deciding to leave a relationship with a psychopath is only the first step. It will not bring results unless you take a tough stand. To do this, you will need to resort to a more effective measure, namely, to virtually completely eliminate even the slightest interaction with a psychopathic person. It would be better to put an end to the relationship remotely. This can be done via telephone or the Internet. This way the unpleasant situation will be depersonalized. If you decide to break the news privately, there is no guarantee that the psychopath will take the news in stride. It may be that he will start a scandal or a fight. In addition, you may perceive what is happening as a drama. For a psychopath, this will become an impetus for action. It is difficult to predict which ones exactly. It all depends on the situation and inclinations of the person with the pathology.
Keep everything secret. It may be that you decide to involve a group of people as support for yourself. Experts do not recommend doing this, since any confrontation, especially a collective one, will be assessed by a psychopath as a challenge. As a result, this will only encourage a person with a mental disorder, and the separation process will drag on for an indefinite period of time with unpleasant consequences for you. The fact is that a psychopath knows how to deftly manipulate facts. Possessing unconventional thinking, such a person will twist everything, and you will appear in an unpleasant light to the people around you.
Before leaving a relationship with a psychopath, consult a professional, such as a psychologist, lawyer, or doctor. These people have experience working with psychopaths, and therefore can advise you on something. Otherwise, you may lose your mental and physical health. Some resort to the help of their friends. However, according to experts, they can harm you. It is possible that the psychopath has already worked with them and told many false stories about you. When you turn to them for support, they will think that you are the bad one.

How to protect yourself?

There is a risk that after breaking up with a psychopath, you may lose your reputation and financial resources. A psychopathic personality is very vindictive, and therefore can try to harm you in any way. The ultimate goal of a psychopath is to completely destroy you. For example, your chosen one may contact your boss and say that you take bribes, collaborate with the company's competitors, or steal. Therefore, you will have to be proactive. Tell your boss that you were in a relationship with a psychopathic person, you ended it, and now you are afraid of retaliation. After this, the likelihood that your manager will believe the information received about you is very minimal.