Hare's Psychopathy Theory

Hare's Psychopathy Theory characterizes psychopathy as a distinct personality disorder marked by traits such as superficial charm, lack of empathy, impulsivity, manipulativeness, and antisocial behaviors. Using the Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R), clinicians assess these traits to identify psychopathic individuals, who often exhibit a charming facade but lack remorse and empathy. The theory suggests that psychopathy involves specific emotional and interpersonal deficits rooted in neurological differences, making these individuals particularly prone to manipulative and perilous behaviors, often with little regard for social norms or the well-being of others.