The Very Short Introductions Podcast Psychopathy – The Very Short Introductions Podcast – Episode 38
Oct 28, 2021
Essi Viding, a Professor of Developmental Psychopathology at University College London, dives into the intricacies of psychopathy, a personality disorder often misunderstood. She explains the core traits, like a lack of empathy and guilt, shedding light on how emotions differ in those with these traits. Viding discusses the early signs of psychopathy emerging in children and the factors influencing its development, emphasizing the role of genetics and environment. She also advocates for public education to help individuals recognize potential manipulative behaviors.
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Core Features Of Psychopathy
- Psychopathy involves a profound lack of empathy and guilt alongside manipulative, often antisocial behavior.
- These traits can show as workplace or relationship harm, not just criminal acts.
Origin Of Research Interest
- Essi Viding first became fascinated during undergraduate lectures by James Blair's neuroscientific findings on psychopathy.
- That fascination grew from seeing individuals who seemed almost void of aspects of common humanity.
Atypical Emotional Resonance
- People with psychopathy show atypical emotional processing and poor resonance with others' distress or joy.
- This emotional difference helps explain exploitive behavior and weak attachments.
