The Surprising Benefits of Psychopathy

Psychologists are challenging the traditional view of psychopathy by studying "successful psychopaths" who exhibit psychopathic tendencies but manage to stay out of trouble. The focus on violent and criminal behavior has marginalized the study of this misunderstood branch of human behavior. Psychopathy is a composite of traits including meanness, disinhibition, and boldness. Researchers believe that the degree of boldness may determine whether someone with psychopathic traits can excel in leadership positions and make their life a success. The dimensional approach to studying psychopathy has opened new doors for research, allowing psychologists to recruit participants from the general population rather than just prisons.