The psychopathic genius is mostly a movie myth, research suggests
Films love the brilliant, cold-blooded manipulator. Studies of antisocial personality disorder paint a less glamorous picture: the condition is linked to lower overall intelligence and specific cognitive deficits, patterns that show up even in children with early warning signs. It is, above all, a chronic disregard for other people's rights and wellbeing.
Psychiatry's label has shifted over the decades. The first edition of the DSM diagnostic manual, in 1952, spoke of a sociopathic personality disturbance and tied it to social and environmental factors. The third edition, in 1980, carved out antisocial personality disorder with a structured checklist of observable behaviours, and the current edition describes a pattern of disregard for others that overlaps with traits associated with psychopathy.
The condition usually shows itself in childhood or early adolescence, often with conduct problems, and tends to peak in late adolescence and early adulthood. Its consequences spill into every part of life: unstable relationships, lost jobs, legal trouble, and high rates of addiction, since it is the personality disorder most strongly associated with substance dependence. It is also highly prevalent in prisons.
The picture of empathy is subtler than the stereotype. Some people with the disorder struggle to read others' mental states; others understand minds perfectly well but have trouble grasping how an aggressive act will affect someone. Many are nonetheless skilled at gathering information about other people, which can make manipulation easier.
Causes appear to mix nature and nurture. Twin studies point to significant genetic influence, and relatives of affected people show higher rates. Much attention has fallen on the gene for monoamine oxidase A, an enzyme that breaks down serotonin and similar messengers: children carrying a low-activity version who also face harsh early experiences are more likely to develop antisocial behaviour, though a small link persists even without them. No medication is approved specifically for the disorder, which is often lifelong, but symptoms may ease after about age 40, and a small share of people improve considerably.
Source: Antisocial personality disorder
