Psychopath: Ted Bundy, The Zodiac Killer

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What is a psychopath? When we think of a psychopath we think of names like Ted Bundy, the Zodiac Killer and other famous murderers that stole the spotlight throughout their violent criminal careers. In reality Psychopathy is traditionally defined as a personality disorder characterized by antisocial behavior, lack of empathy or remorse, and bold behavior. Although no psychiatric or psychological organization has sanctioned a diagnosis titled "psychopathy", assessments of psychopathic characteristics are widely used in criminal justice settings and the corrections system to determine an offender’s likelihood to re-offend if released. Research also continues today into weather psychopathy is an actual mental problem or possibly a combination …show more content…

Identifying such psychopaths is not easy. One reason for this is that in our culture some psychopathic traits are considered admirable, and are rewarded by society. Such traits include: fearlessness, cunning and social adeptness. These traits can be argued to be beneficial in some cases thereby raising the idea that a benevolent psychopath could exist. For example a psychopathic doctor is unlikely to develop a nervous hand tremor. A psychopathic Special Forces operative is unlikely to hesitate during an assault. A psychopathic undercover narcotics detective is unlikely to betray himself with anxiety. Those are a few examples of some good the personality can affect but in more cases the general consensus in dealing with a White Collar Psychopath the initial meeting is pleasant and over time an atmosphere of fear and intimidation exists. The term white collar crime refers to financially motivated non-violent offenses. Most studies involving White Collar Psychopaths involve criminal activities. Those offenses include embezzling, high profile thefts and what has been referred to as romance crimes or those involving financial fraud with a romantic partner. The studies are valid but of all the criminal cases there are many more individuals that could be classified as White Collar Psychopaths that do not offend.
Psychopaths that exist in the corporate and private world and are adept at making themselves an integral part of any corporation or family these are the White Collar Psychopaths, but what kind of damage do they do and how do they work their way in with generally no friction at

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