Twisted serial killers, assassins, mobsters, and Ponzi-schemers. All are fascinating in their own way, but crime alone doesn’t link all of them. Their minds do too. The media sensationalizes these people and others because of their deeds and the idea that they are psychopaths. Psychopaths and sociopaths are equally as fascinating and are often linked with the above. Remember Ed Gein – one of the men who inspired the character Buffalo Bill from Silence of the Lambs? He collected the bodies of women in the mid-1900s through grave-robbing and murder, used their remains to decorate his farm and make various items of clothing, and is considered a psychopath. On the other hand, Bernie Madoff, who stole millions from people and did not directly kill anyone, is considered by some to be a sociopath.

What’s the difference? Is there a difference?

Generally, psychopathy can be defined as a mental disorder where an individual shows signs of antisocial behaviors, a lack of ability to establish relationships or empathy, and is often linked with violent behavior. Of course, psychopathy really can’t be defined in a single sentence. It has many facets and some individuals show one trait while others may not. Essentially, however, the lack of emotion and empathy is the key.

Those with sociopathy often break rules, make impulsive decisions, attempt to control others, and have difficulty understanding the feelings of others. Again, there is no one set definition of sociopathy as some believe that sociopaths are often emotional and prone to rage-induced outbursts. However, this is clearly similar to psychopathy in behavior, lack of understanding of others’ feelings, and little to no emotion in general.

In fact, most agree there are no distinct differences between psychopathy and sociopathy. This is why the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the manual used throughout the United States to diagnose mental health disorders, has only one term for it - antisocial personality disorder.

This article alone cannot cover all the traits that go into an antisocial personality disorder. In general, the DSM states that antisocial personality disorder (APD) is someone with significant impairments in personality functioning as manifested by impairments in identity (i.e. ego and self-esteem), self-direction (i.e. conforming to standards), empathy, and/or intimacy. This is paired with traits such as antagonism (i.e. manipulation) and disinhibition (i.e. impulsivity). This diagnosis encompasses both psychopathy and sociopathy well, in addition to allowing for variation that inevitably occurs. Of course, some researchers and professionals are still evaluating and attempting to understand this disorder. Perhaps we will see changes (or additions of psychopathy and sociopathy) in the next DSM.

But how does this all influence you as an author?

For those who write about mental health or want to provide a diagnosis for your character, make sure to do your research before writing. Learn about the disorder your character has and understand the different facets and terms. In regards to psychopathy and sociopathy, while the terms are not incorrect, an antisocial personality disorder may be more apt. In fact, it may allow for your character to be more fluid or provide your detectives with a better understanding of who they are looking for.