In nine pages this paper presents a detailed introduction, methodology, and literature review on psychopathology with an annotated bibliography and conclusions included. Seven sources are cited in the annotated bibliography.
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is replete with misperceptions and misunderstandings. There is, in fact, no contemporary clinical definition of psychopath as such. There are, however, various behaviors which most psychiatrists agree could
be classified as psychopathic. Contemporary psychiatric thought suggests that a more appropriate psychological classification for these types of behavior is "antisocial personality disorder" (ASPD). As will be revealed
in this brief paper, however, a tremendous variety of conditions continue to be referred to as psychopathic behavior. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSMIV) clarifies that individuals suffering from
ASPD, specifically, are characterized by a number of aberrant behaviors. These individuals typically exhibit a complete lack of empathy. They are callous, contemptuous, and cynical about the feelings,
rights, and suffering of others. They can also be extremely intelligent, charming, and verbally facile, however; qualities which make casual acquaintances tend to overlook the more negative qualities of
irritability and aggressiveness. ASPD can manifest in difficulty in controlling impulses, a lack of fear, and a reckless disregard for the safety of others.
Individuals suffering from antisocial personality disorder present a real societal concern both from the perspective of the more serious forms of behavior which they can exhibit and from
the sheer number of people who fit into this category. We know that approximately three percent of males and one percent of females in the general population suffer
from antisocial personality disorder. This percentage is significantly higher however in the prison population, between thirty and fifty percent. Countless other individuals suffer from less severe yet concerning
forms of psychopathic behavior. It is suspected that individuals suffering from this disorder require a higher level of stimulation of the nervous system than does the general population.