Understanding Psychopathy: Primary vs. Secondary Psychopaths…
Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
Psychopathy is a complex personality disorder characterized by callousness and unemotional traits.
While these traits are central to all psychopaths, Research from the Journal of Management tells us that there are distinct differences between the two main types: primary and secondary psychopaths…
Primary Psychopaths: Primary psychopaths can exhibit surprising traits.
According to a study by Ms. Nora Schütte and colleagues, primary psychopaths can be cooperative, helpful, and friendly, traits that may seem contradictory to traditional views of psychopathy.
Ms. Schütte explains, "People with this character trait want to get their way, have no fear of the consequences of their actions, and can withstand stress very well." This concept is linked to the idea of high-functioning psychopaths, individuals who can mask negative traits to achieve their goals, often due to their high IQ.
Secondary Psychopaths: In contrast, secondary psychopaths display destructive and unhelpful behaviors. Ms. Schütte describes them as having high self-centered impulsivity, lacking an inner brake, and weak self-control, leading to a disregard for others.
How the study was conducted
The research, which surveyed 161 humans about their personalities and work interactions, found that primary psychopaths, despite their fearless dominance, were often perceived as cooperative and helpful, especially when they possessed strong social skills.
However, secondary psychopaths, regardless of their social skills, were consistently problematic in their work environments, demonstrating the negative effects associated with their psychopathic traits.
Not All Psychopaths are Alike: It's important to note that not all psychopaths exhibit antisocial behavior. Females, in particular can be decidedly patient, strategic, and non-violent.
Professor Gerhard Blickle, a co-author of the study, emphasizes that many psychopaths can be the opposite, acting as selfless heroes in everyday life, such as life-savers, emergency physicians, or firefighters.
While psychopathy affects approximately one in 200 people, many folks may exhibit some psychopathic traits. Common signs include narcissism, superficial charm, manipulativeness, lack of empathy, and a focus on rewards while ignoring consequences.
Understanding the nuances of primary and secondary psychopathy can help everyday folks to recognize and address these complex personality traits in various contexts, especially socially, and at work.
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
RESEARCH:
Schütte, N., & Blickle, G. (2016). The two faces of the Dark Triad: Differential relationships of dark personality traits with emotional intelligence and mindfulness. Journal of Management, 42(7), 1820-1842.
