Sociopath Meaning: Exploring Terminology In Psychology

In general, psychological terminology has evolved over the decades as research further investigates various mental illnesses and mental health challenges. A term commonly discussed in modern psychology is the word “sociopath,” which has come to be associated with several connotations and stereotypes. Understanding sociopathy and updated psychological terms, like antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), can be a step toward reducing stigma and finding support.

What does “sociopath” mean in psychology? 

In psychology, the term “sociopath” was introduced in the first edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-I) with the “sociopathic personality disturbance” diagnostic label. 

However, the word was used in other contexts before the DSM was published. The word “psychopath” was often used to describe what were later identified as sociopathic traits, as both terms were initially considered the same. Modern-day psychology distinguishes between the two. 

In 1968, the second edition of the DSM was published, removing sociopathic personality disturbance and adding the new diagnostic label of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), which had sociopathy listed as a diagnostic criterion. In this sense, sociopathy was considered to be a cluster of the following symptoms: 

• A disregard for the feelings of others
• Antisocial behavior
• Criminal behavior 
• A disregard for societal rules and norms

Because of ASPD’s connection to the term “sociopath,” people began to use this term to refer to anyone with the condition, as well as those who might have portrayed psychopathic traits. Sociopath seems to have become a popular term for referring to murderers and prolific criminals, associating the term with criminal misconduct. 

Is sociopath a diagnostic term? 

In the most recent version of the DSM, the DSM-V, “sociopath” is not used as a clinical term but as a subcategory of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). ASPD is considered the proper terminology for referring to someone with this condition. 

Sociopathy is not listed as a symptom of any other mental illness. For this reason, a psychologist, mental health professional, or diagnostic provider normally does not diagnose individuals with sociopathy. Instead, they may assess whether an individual is living with a condition like ASPD. 

The stigma surrounding the term “sociopath”

Sociopathy, as a term, may be considered stigmatizing because it gives individuals a non-clinical label that has been associated with significant criminal activity and potentially unfair portrayals of individuals in media. To avoid stigma, it may be helpful to refer to an individual with ASPD as “a person with antisocial personality disorder” instead of calling them a sociopath or psychopath.

Referring to personality disorders by their names can reduce assumptions about how someone might behave or the type of person they may be. Many people with personality disorders live productive lives and do not act on criminal or unsafe urges. Treatment may help people with these conditions manage their symptoms safely. 

Understanding antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) 

Antisocial personality disorder is a cluster B personality disorder in the DSM-V. This condition generally involves a group of symptoms that may significantly affect one’s personality and contribute to functional difficulties, especially in relationships. The symptoms of ASPD include the following: 

• A lack of social conformity concerning lawful behaviors 
• Repeated lying or manipulation for personal gain
• Impulsivity and risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex or substance misuse
• Disregard for the safety of oneself and others
• A lack of professional or financial responsibility
• Lack of remorse for one’s actions, especially negative aspects of behavior or when hurting others
• A lack of empathy
• Difficulty recognizing emotions 

To be diagnosed with ASPD, the individual must be an adult, and there must be evidence that one was diagnosed with or likely fit the criteria for conduct disorder before age 15. In addition, the behavior must not be due to schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or another mental health condition.

How to find support for ASPD

If you are living with ASPD, psychological interventions are available. This mental health condition is often considered manageable with professional guidance. However, it may be difficult for one to make changes if they are not aware they are living with a mental illness. If you relate to the symptoms above, it may be helpful to seek a screening from a therapist or psychologist for professional insight. 

Medication

Medication cannot directly treat personality disorders, but it may be used as a short-term support option to reduce the severity of co-occurring disorders and symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, anger, and mood swings. Medication is often considered a secondary approach to treatment and may be most effective when used in tandem with psychotherapy. Only a doctor or psychiatrist can prescribe these types of medication.

Self-care 

Self-care is not necessarily a treatment, but it can help people with personality disorders regulate their emotions and effectively navigate daily life. Forms of self-care that may be helpful include the following: 

• Nutritious eating habits: Eating foods that nourish your body and help you feel healthy may be helpful in reducing challenging mental health symptoms. Talk to a registered dietician to find an eating plan that is healthy for your unique body. 
• Exercise: Exercise can increase endorphins that improve mood and brain development. Some studies have found that physical activity may grow the hippocampus, which can help individuals make healthier and more rational decisions. 
• Hobbies: Hobbies can offer a fun way to distract oneself from difficult emotions or thoughts. Find activities you enjoy or take a class to learn a new skill. 
• Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices may help individuals observe unwanted thoughts and urges without acting on them. Hundreds of mindfulness exercises have been developed, and using a guided meditation app might be a helpful approach. 
• Social support: Social support systems tend to be essential for mental wellness. Talking to others, spending time in the presence of those you love, and experiencing a sense of reciprocation can reduce mental distress and loneliness, which may worsen symptoms of ASPD. An online or in-person support group for people with ASPD or personality disorders might be helpful. 
• Hygiene and physical care: Physical self-care may increase physical energy stores, which may help individuals motivate themselves to attend work, complete responsibilities, and fulfill tasks. 
• Time management: Time management skills may help individuals with ASPD block out times for specific responsibilities and keep jobs that may be difficult for them to attend. Time management may also leave room for hobbies and social support. 
• Sleep hygiene: Studies have found that sleep hygiene can be essential for physical and mental health. Sleep hygiene can involve getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night, turning off devices at least an hour before bed, and keeping one’s sleeping space clean and comfortable. 

Therapy

Therapy is often viewed as the primary treatment for conditions like ASPD, as it normally focuses on behavioral intervention. Because personality disorders are primarily behavior-based, psychotherapy may help people with ASPD change and differentiate between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They may learn how to acknowledge emotions and urges without acting on them. 

Some people may find it challenging to seek in-person therapy. In these cases, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp could be more accessible. Clients can complete a quick questionnaire to be matched with a suitable therapist, often within 48 hours. In addition, they can choose between phone, video, and live chat sessions to personalize the therapy experience.

Although there has been limited research on online therapy for personality disorders, studies have found that common co-occurring mental illnesses like anxiety and depression can be treated using these interventions. One study found that internet-based therapy could be more effective than in-person treatment in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms and improving quality of life. In addition, the intervention was found to be more cost-effective for clients. 

Takeaway 

The term “sociopath” has been associated with various symptoms, mental illnesses, and personalities over the years. However, the current version of the DSM-V does not use this word as a diagnostic term. Instead, someone with “sociopathic” traits might be diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), a condition that usually involves a disregard of social norms, rules, and the emotions of others. 

ASPD may be manageable with treatment. A combination of medication, psychotherapy, and self-care is often recommended. Consider contacting a therapist online or in your area to get started.