Why is it so hard to spot a female psychopath?

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When you think of a psychopath, you probably think of someone who feels no guilt, empathy, or remorse. But according to some recent studies, the reality may be a little different. 

A small study revealed something unexpected: many workers in the social sector said they had encountered colleagues who displayed strong psychopathic traits, and in most cases, they were women.

This is strange, especially in a field that is theoretically built on empathy and caring for others. Researcher Fiona Girkin, who has worked in the sector for over 20 years, began to notice these behaviors not only from personal experience, but also from the accounts of others.

She suggests that psychopathy in women may manifest differently than it does in men. Women display less aggression and more emotional manipulation. This is precisely what makes it harder to spot.

Instead of overt behaviors, such as violence or impulsivity, it is often about more hidden tactics: spreading rumors, social isolation, gaslighting , creating strategic relationships with people in power.

At first they may seem very close, even charming. Then they change.

Some of the people interviewed in the study indicated that they had quit their jobs, while others described situations where they felt emotionally broken, to the point that they could no longer cope with the work environment.

What further complicates the situation is the fact that most of what we know about psychopathy comes from studies of men. Even diagnostic tools are largely built on this basis.

This means that many women with psychopathic traits may not be identified at all, because they do not fit the "classical model" we expect.

Essentially, psychopathy is not necessarily associated with crime or violence. It is characterized by traits such as a lack of empathy, manipulation, persistent lying, and a strong focus on personal interests, without regard for the consequences for others.

Source: BBC Science Focus