The brain region involved in emotional regulation and empathy continues to develop and become more complex as children grow. It is incorrect to label children as psychopaths based on callous and unemotional traits, as these traits may not persist into adolescence. Around 60% of children with these traits may still exhibit them in early adolescence, but many of them will resolve as they go through puberty. The term 'psychopath' carries negative connotations, and it is more appropriate to use the term 'callous and unemotional traits' instead. These traits include a lack of empathy and remorse, callousness towards others, and shallow and efficient affect, where emotions can be easily turned on or off.
As a toddler, Nicole's son was extremely aggressive.
As he got older, his behaviour worsened.
In this episode from our archives, we examine 'callous unemotional traits' — the early warning signs of psychopathy that emerge in childhood.
This episode was first broadcast in December 2022.