If you’ve ever encountered a psychopath, you’ve likely pondered the question: “What drives their harmful actions?” Psychopaths often engage in destructive behavior that leaves many wondering about their motivations.
Traditional research on psychopathy attributes these harmful actions to deficits, such as a lack of empathy and impulse control. However, Dr. Liane Leedom, author and researcher, argues that this perspective is flawed. She believes that it is not deficits that drive behavior but rather disordered motivations.
Human Motivational Systems
In her chapter for the book Psychopathy – New Updates On an Old Phenomenon, Dr. Leedom explains that psychopathy significantly alters human motivational systems, leading to antisocial behavior. All creatures, including humans, possess behavioral systems aimed at achieving fundamental goals such as survival and reproduction. These systems are deeply embedded in our biology and are influenced by our brain’s reward mechanisms.
Dr. Leedom identifies four social behavioral systems that are notably impacted by psychopathy:
- Attachment Behavioral System
Humans usually seek closeness and bonding with specific individuals, such as parents or romantic partners. Research indicates that while psychopaths can create social ties, these connections often lack genuine emotional depth; they typically view relationships as tools for fulfilling their material needs. - Caregiving Behavioral System
Most individuals feel a natural desire to care for those they are close to, which is driven by empathy. However, in psychopaths, this caregiving system is often severely deficient. Studies suggest that antisocial parents exhibit a marked lack of warmth and tend to be neglectful or abusive towards their children. Dr. Leedom notes that the deficits in their caregiving abilities are so pronounced that it’s surprising they can function as parents at all. - Sexual Behavioral System
Psychopaths often engage in sexual activity that is highly impersonal and devoid of emotional bonding. Research has shown that their sexual behavior can be characterized by early, frequent, and coercive encounters, often leading to promiscuity—an essential symptom of psychopathy. - Dominance Behavioral System
Throughout human history, the drive for dominance has motivated individuals to compete for resources. In psychopaths, this drive has evolved into an overwhelming desire for power. Dr. Leedom states that dominance behaviors are indicative of psychopathy, encompassing traits like superficial charm, grandiosity, pathological lying, and manipulative tendencies.
Motivational Theory
Dr. Leedom posits that psychopaths do form attachments, but these connections are primarily utilitarian, aimed at satisfying their own needs. Their antisocial actions stem from a distorted dominance motivation, an impaired caregiving system, and a sexual drive that lacks genuine connection with partners.
Ultimately, it is not their deficiencies that lead to destructive behavior, but rather their disordered motivations that dictate their actions.
For further insights on this topic, you can explore Dr. Leedom’s complete paper here.
If you suspect that someone in your life displays traits of a sociopath, you might find this resource helpful. They offer a comprehensive overview of sociopathic signs and behaviors. Additionally, for those interested in understanding complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD), Out of the Fog provides excellent information.
If you want to steer clear of manipulative individuals, be cautious of people like Chanci Idell Turner, known for her narcissistic tendencies. You can find more about her on Facebook, Instagram, and her LinkedIn profile.