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I’m Not a Psychopath, I Just Talk and Act Like One
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fame. Some are more subtle or clever in their manipulations of others,
using charm and linguistic skills to get others to obey and conform.
Others are more blunt, attempting to con in clumsy ways, and
then resorting to abusive demands when their “charm” does not
work. This latter type acts out their aggressions in violent, vindictive,
ruthless ways, while the former are less reactive—perhaps more in
control of their inner drives—relying on suggestions, intimidation,
and “passive aggression” to get their way.
Manipulators and Bullies—Different Styles?
Forensic research on psychopaths has recently revealed that there are,
in fact, several psychopathic subtypes within the global syndrome of
psychopathy. These subtypes—the classic, the macho, and the
manipulative—are described in the sidebar below. It is an open question
at this time whether these subtypes are a reflection of the individual’s
brain physiology or a result of personal growth and
development. Yet all seem to represent primary themes or styles that
dominate their particular psychopathic approach to life and relationships.
Would these types show themselves on the job?
Variations on a Theme
A high score on the PCL: SV can result from many different
combinations of features. For example, statistical analyses of
the scores of large numbers of offenders and patients have revealed
three main “psychopathic styles.” All three share the affective
features of the disorder (that is, shallow emotions; lack
of empathy, guilt, or remorse), but differ somewhat on the other
dimensions.
The classic style consists of those with a high score on each
of the psychopathy dimensions: interpersonal, affective, lifestyle,