The Impact of Psychopathy on the Family

Abstract

Psychopathy is the amalgamation of personality disorder traits associated with crimi- nal and other antisocial behavior. Although current theory postulates that psycho- pathic individuals do not form lasting bonds with others, this chapter provides ample evidence that psychopathic individuals are highly social and maintain ties over years. Psychopathic individuals have relationships with friends, co-workers, relatives, siblings, parents, romantic partners, and children. These relationships serve their social and mate- rial needs. This chapter presents all available studies to date on the friendship, filial, sibling, partnering, and parenting behavior of psychopathic individuals. The impact of psychopathic individuals on organizational and family functioning is also addressed.