Successful Psychopaths?

While the general stereotype of a psychopath is that they are serial killer—or other negative contributor to society—according to James Fallon in The Psychopath Inside, there are many qualities about psychopaths that are beneficial towards becoming well established and successful. An article by Theo Merz supports and expounds upon certain claims Fallon made relating to the fruitfulness of psychopathic characteristics with respect to career and love life. The key idea to grasp is that the psychopaths we are exposed to with media, literature, and education generally veer towards the extremely negative side. We must keep an open mind and understand that it is, indeed, possible for some to harness psychopathic traits and use them towards their own advantage. The ideas from the article are from Andy McNab’s book, The Good Psychopath’s Guide to Success, in which he wants to prove that psychopaths indeed can be good.  

Furthermore, Merz outlines how psychopaths are particularly adept in the areas of business, and, surprisingly, relationships. In business and relationships, it is necessary to be fearless. Psychopaths generally have a high level of self-confidence, which leads to the lessening of fear towards rejection. They can “turn this fear down,” and are, therefore, able to do things they might have otherwise not done, out of fear of rejection. This can apply to a weaker reaction towards rejection from a woman, which would allow the courage to continue the pursuit of love, without becoming overly disheartened. In an office environment, psychopaths could use this ability to make necessary decisions that others would be too scared to make. Focus is also a strong facet in the psychopathic skill repertoire. They have an uncanny ability to “block out other concerns” and perform tasks with a higher level of focus.

Moreover, the lack of empathy that psychopaths exhibit can lead to doing the best for the company, while making otherwise difficult decisions that would impact another’s life. It is a great quality to have, when controlled. Turning down the dial completely could lead to alienating a psychopath alienating those around him or her. The ruthlessness that can ensue as a result of a lack of empathy is great to demand respect and stay a leader. It also can allow a psychopath to leave an unsuccessful relationship and have an easier time dealing with the sadness that generally ensues after such an event. Psychopaths are definitely able to succeed in society, as long as they are able to control the level to which their psychopathic tendencies affect them and those around them.

       

Fallon, J. (2013). The Psychopath Inside. New York: Penguin Group.

Merz, T. (2014, May 8). “6 Ways Acting Like A Psychopath Can Help You Succeed.” Retrieved February 27, 2015, from http://www.businessinsider.com/6-ways-acting-like-a-psychopath-can-help-you-succeed-2014-5