Distinctions between Psychopathic, Sociopathic and Anti-Social Personality Disorders
Relevant distinctions between the concepts of psychopathic, sociopathic and anti-social personalities are discussed in this paper. The focus is briefly on the dynamics, purpose, and meaning of the criminal act itself rather than on subjective impressions such as empathy or egocentricity. Other relevant factors that differentiate the three groups are type of crime, motive, length of prison term, presence of psychiatric symptoms, and social environment. Case material is presented to illustrate the points.