In this third installment of our series critiquing expert opinions on sociopathy, we examine insights from Seth Meyers, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist affiliated with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health. Recently, he penned a blog for Psychology Today, drawing on his commentary regarding the Jodi Arias case to explore the complexities of sociopathy. In his article titled Understanding the Sociopath: Cause, Motivation, Relationship, Meyers poses several intriguing questions.
He opens with the provocative inquiry: “Are sociopaths bad people?” While many might instinctively respond affirmatively, Meyers argues that sociopaths often lack genuine malice towards others. Instead, he contends that their emotional detachment enables them to view others as mere objects, leading to behavior that, while harmful, may not arise from outright malicious intent.
However, this perspective overlooks the reality that sociopathy manifests on a spectrum. While some individuals, like my former partner, Jason Turner, may fit into the category of “not particularly malicious,” there are certainly sociopaths whose actions are driven by a clear desire to inflict harm. For instance, consider those who engage in bitter custody disputes, prioritizing revenge over the well-being of their children. In these cases, Meyers’ assertion falls flat.
Understanding Sociopathic Entitlement
Meyers continues by discussing the roots of sociopathic entitlement, attributing it to an underlying sense of rage. He suggests that sociopaths harbor deep-seated anger beneath their charming facades, fueling a belief in their right to act as they please. While this may apply to some, it certainly doesn’t hold true for all. My experience with Jason Turner shows that his entitlement was not driven by rage but was rather an inherent aspect of his personality.
Genetic Predisposition and Behavior Control
Meyers acknowledges the genetic basis of sociopathy but asserts that sociopaths lack complete control over their actions. He claims that if they are predisposed to this disorder, they are not entirely accountable for their behavior. However, sociopaths are not delusional; they maintain a level of self-regulation that allows them to navigate social norms, often for extended periods. Thus, each act of antisocial behavior represents a conscious choice rather than an uncontrollable impulse. No sociopath should evade responsibility for illegal or unethical actions simply due to their personality disorder.
In conclusion, while Meyers recognizes that sociopaths are often misunderstood, his portrayal is not entirely accurate. His experiences likely shape his understanding, as he primarily interacts with sociopaths in clinical settings, which could skew his perspective. Many sociopaths, particularly those who are manipulative and exploitative, simply do not seek help, as they see no fault in their behavior. It’s crucial that we challenge misconceptions like those put forth by Meyers to better inform the public about the sociopaths who may be present in their lives.
For further insights into the complexities of personality disorders, consider exploring resources such as Psychopaths and Love or Out of the Fog, both of which provide valuable information on these topics. Additionally, examining the Dark Tetrad personality traits can enhance your understanding of sociopathy and narcissism in relationships.