A fascinating post on how to identify a sociopath, (http://paularenee.wordpress.com/identifying-a-narcissistic-sociopath/). Sociopaths can be superficially charming and may appear to be wholly sincere. However they are, in reality totally self-obsessed with no (or very) little empathy for others. Sociopaths will lie, cheat and, in short do anything which enhances their own position with no concern for the wellbeing of others.

In my story, “Samantha”, Sam’s brutal pimp, Barry exhibits many of the traits which imbue the sociopath. Indeed Barry verges on the psychopathic end of sociopathy. His aim is the making of money. The wellbing of Sam and the other girls he forces into prostitution does not figure in Barry’s world view. They are, for him merely a means to the greater enrichment of Barry O’Connor.

Are sociopaths born or made? I don’t know the answer to that question. I am, however sceptical of reductionist approaches which ascribe simple causes to what are (often) highly complex problems. Consequently my admittedly unscientific view is that sociopaths and psychopaths are the products of many and varied factors including both environmental and, perhaps genetic factors.

For my story, “Samantha” please visit (http://www.amazon.com/Samantha-K-Morris-ebook/dp/B00BL3CNHI).