3 common characteristics of children prone to psychopathy
Research shows that children prone to psychopathy are completely different from ordinary child mischief.
The study, published in the Daily Mail, identifies three key behaviors that may indicate the development of psychopathic traits in children, especially those aged 3-4:
1. The child is not affected by others being upset or harmed. 2. Even if punished, the child will repeat the same harmful behavior. There is no learning reflex.
3. While most children enjoy making their parents or friends happy, these children focus solely on their own desires. The happiness of others doesn't mean anything to them.
Neuroscience professor Essi Viding emphasizes that these symptoms are part of a process that begins at a very young age, not a personality disorder that suddenly emerges at age 18. While the presence of symptoms doesn't necessarily mean that children will become psychopaths, they are thought to be at higher risk than their peers.
The study, published in the journal Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience , revealed that psychopathic tendencies are also linked to genetic influences.
The higher prevalence of callous-apathetic traits in identical twins suggests that these tendencies are closely linked to genetic factors.
Brain imaging studies also reveal that these children show differences in brain regions associated with emotions (e.g., the amygdala).
No one is born a psychopath, but certain genetic predispositions can increase the risk, according to Viding.
Experts state that there are three important intervention methods to prevent the development of psychopathy in children with these tendencies:
Loving parenting:
Even adopted children who grow up in positive parenting environments are at lower risk of developing psychopathy, despite being genetically at risk.
Positive reinforcement can protect children from antisocial behavior despite their genetic predisposition, according to a 2016 study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry .
Therapy:
Therapists can help children learn to manage their emotions and control their behavior. It's also important to support parents in how to be more effective in this process.
Early intervention:
The earlier these signs are recognized and addressed, the easier it is to change. "As any behavior becomes ingrained, it becomes harder to intervene," Viding says. "But that doesn't mean it's over if it's not recognized by age five. We have intervention methods that work with adolescents and adults as well."
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