From the diagnostic manual....
Sociopathy / Psycopathy
This disorder is characterized by a long-standing pattern of a disregard for other people's rights, often crossing the line and violating those rights. This pattern of behavior has occurred since age 15 (although only adults 18 years or older can be diagnosed with this disorder) and consists by the presence of the majority of these symptoms:
- failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest
- deceitfulness, as indicated by repeated lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure
- impulsivity or failure to plan ahead
- irritability and aggressiveness, as indicated by repeated physical fights or assaults
- reckless disregard for safety of self or others
- consistent irresponsibility, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain consistent work behavior or honor financial obligations
- lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another
Criteria summarized from:
American Psychiatric Association.
(1994). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, fourth
edition. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association.
Sound familiar?
Michael Moore?
Scott Ritter?
The entire editorial staff of the NY Times and CNN?
Ted Turner?
Most of Hollyweird?
The vast majority of the political left?
Definition lifted from Dictionary.com
Posted by Mike S at April 12, 2003 07:55 AM