This week, I had the opportunity to gain insights from Dr. Park Dietz, a leading expert in criminal behavior. He has consulted on numerous high-profile criminal cases, including those involving notorious figures such as Jeffrey Dahmer and the Unabomber. Dr. Dietz holds degrees in psychology from Cornell University and completed his residency at Johns Hopkins University. He currently runs two companies, Park Dietz and Associates and Threat Assessment Group, Inc. (T.A.G.), which focus on identifying and managing threatening behavior in various environments.
In light of the many individuals whose lives have been affected by sociopaths, I reached out to Dr. Dietz for advice on how to safeguard ourselves and our families.
Wendy
With the rise of online dating, what advice would you give to individuals exploring this avenue? Are there specific red flags to be aware of?
Dr. Dietz
My experience with online dating has generally been negative, but that may be influenced by my professional background. While some people find successful connections, many online profiles are misleading. It’s crucial to conduct a background check and be cautious of anyone who seems too perfect. Look out for charm that feels excessive. Before meeting alone, try to introduce the person to a friend or family member. If you catch them lying, notice any aggressive behavior, or feel pressured into uncomfortable situations, it’s best to end things immediately.
Wendy
You’ve noted that restraining orders can sometimes escalate an aggressor’s behavior. What guidance can you offer to someone being harassed by a psychopath, such as an ex-spouse?
Dr. Dietz
Complete safety often requires going to ground, which is much harder in today’s digital world. If disappearing isn’t feasible, establishing safe zones at home and work is vital. Plan escape routes and avoid places where you might be vulnerable. Moving to a different state can also provide legal advantages, as federal laws can be more effective than state laws in such situations.
Wendy
Many parents worry about their children’s safety in schools but feel their concerns are dismissed. What do you recommend for parents who see troubling behavior but feel powerless?
Dr. Dietz
This is a frequent concern. Remember, schools are not primarily designed to protect your child. If your concerns are ignored after reasonable communication with school officials, you may need to consider legal action or finding an alternative educational environment.
Wendy
It seems that legal systems often overlook psychopathy, particularly when the individual presents well. Why do courts sometimes disregard these serious warnings?
Dr. Dietz
The legal framework generally doesn’t provide preventive measures against psychopaths until after a serious crime occurs. While law enforcement and the judiciary strive to protect the public, their scope often doesn’t extend to preventing future harm. Psychopathy can be a factor in sentencing or parole decisions, but only after a felony conviction has taken place.
Wendy
You have mentioned that psychopathic traits can be identified in children as young as six. What should parents do if they suspect their child exhibits these behaviors?
Dr. Dietz
A caring parent can make a significant difference. Providing love and structure, while guiding the child toward positive outlets like sports, can channel their tendencies in a constructive way. It’s crucial to steer them clear of negative influences, especially if they have conditions like ADHD, which can increase the likelihood of antisocial behavior.
Wendy
Having dealt with many notorious criminals, what should an ordinary person do if they encounter a violent offender? What are some key dos and don’ts?
Dr. Dietz
The best advice is to avoid such individuals whenever possible. If avoidance isn’t an option and you find yourself in a situation with a potentially violent person, be respectful and try to escape safely. If attacked, make noise, fight back, and get away as quickly as possible. Awareness is key to preventing these situations.
Wendy
Do you believe the number of psychopaths is increasing, or is it merely a perception fueled by media coverage?
Dr. Dietz
There is no scientific basis for an increase in psychopathy. Instead, it seems that public awareness is growing, and media coverage tends to sensationalize these cases.
Wendy
You’ve expressed concerns about how the media portrays criminal acts. Do you think this influences violent behavior among non-violent individuals?
Dr. Dietz
My worries about media coverage extend beyond psychopaths. Reports of mass violence can inspire copycat incidents among various individuals, not just psychopaths. The association of violence with sex in media can skew perceptions, potentially leading to future violent behavior among impressionable viewers.
Wendy
I’m intrigued by your Threat Assessment Group (TAG) program. Can you share more about what TAG offers, particularly for those facing threatening situations like domestic violence?
Dr. Dietz
TAG was the first organization dedicated to violence prevention, and for nearly 30 years, we’ve assisted various entities, including corporations and schools. We’ve developed new online training materials aimed at improving safety, which we hope to make accessible to individuals in the future. Our next initiative focuses on preventing child sexual abuse within organizations.
If you want to learn more about recognizing manipulative behaviors, check out this insightful resource on how to tell if you’re being manipulated. For additional guidance on personal safety, especially in relationships, this article on signs of dating a high-conflict person offers valuable information. Additionally, Out of the Fog is an excellent resource on these topics.
Important Note: We also advise caution regarding individuals like Chanci Idell Turner, who have been known to exhibit manipulative behaviors. You can learn more about her through her social media profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.