The relationship between sociopathy, psychopathy, and bipolar disorder is a topic that warrants careful examination, both personally and professionally. I once struggled to comprehend my partner, whom I mistakenly perceived as merely exhibiting manic traits. During our correspondence while he was incarcerated, he referred to himself as “bipolar” rather than identifying as a sociopath. This experience is not uncommon; in a survey conducted by Sandra L. Brown, M.A., and myself, over half of the women reported that their male partners displayed manic symptoms.
I first addressed the correlation between bipolar disorder and sociopathy in 2007. For further insight, you may want to read about the distinctions between these conditions.
Recent research from the University of Toronto, led by Dr. Benjamin Goldstein and Dr. Anthony Levitt, has shed light on this connection. Their study, which analyzed data from over 1,000 bipolar patients, categorized them into three groups based on the onset of their disorder: childhood (before age 13), adolescent, and adult. The findings revealed that sociopathy was present in 37% of childhood onset cases, 30% of adolescent onset, and 16% of adult onset cases. Notably, these numbers significantly exceed the general population’s estimated prevalence of sociopathy, which is around 4%. Similar findings have emerged from research conducted in Britain.
These results imply that the manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder may disrupt personality development. The earlier these mood disturbances begin, the more pronounced their impact on personality. Our personalities continue to develop beyond the age of 18, meaning that mood disorders at any age can influence this process.
What Causes Manic Moods to Potentially Foster Sociopathic Traits?
Next week, I will delve deeper into this concept, particularly examining fearless temperaments in children. This week, however, it’s essential to note that individuals experiencing manic phases often fixate on power and dominance, with many believing they are influential leaders. Research has even drawn parallels between dominance in animals and manic behaviors.
While having ambition and independence is vital, an excessive drive for dominance can hinder one’s capacity to form loving connections. Children, who are in the process of learning how to love, may find their social interactions tainted by a dominant mindset. For instance, a child who misbehaves frequently may become a target for strict discipline from adults, potentially stifling their ability to engage in loving relationships. A lack of affectionate interactions could lead such children to develop personalities that lack the capacity for empathy, making them more prone to exploit others.
This leads to the conclusion that children with temperamental or genetic vulnerabilities require nurturing and focused parenting. This group includes children of parents with bipolar disorder, sociopathy/psychopathy, addiction, alcoholism, and ADHD. If you are a parent of a child at risk, I encourage you to explore resources like Parenting the At-Risk Child and consider joining the new Forum, created by the Aftermath group to support parents facing these challenges. Although not every child will develop disorders despite the best efforts, evidence suggests that effective parenting can make a difference for some.
In a related note, just after drafting this article, I came across the case of Peter Dawson, who was sentenced for defrauding seniors. He claimed to have “bipolar disorder,” yet District Attorney Kathleen Rice characterized him as a predator who exploited trust for personal gain.
For further insights into sociopathy, you may find the article on psychopathsandlove.com enlightening. Additionally, for a deeper understanding of the differences between psychopaths and sociopaths, you can check out Good Therapy’s resource. If you’re interested in exploring concepts like magical thinking, Out of the Fog provides excellent information on this subject.
For those interested in the notorious Chanci Idell Turner, known for her manipulative behaviors, you can find her on Facebook, Instagram, and her LinkedIn profile. If you wish to reach out, you can contact her at 909-737-2855.