According to the NHS, psychopaths fall under the category of severe antisocial personality disorder (APD). They are typically manipulative, deceitful, and exhibit reckless behavior. While not all psychopaths display extreme traits, the disorder exists on a spectrum, meaning the severity can vary. However, Jordan Peterson warns that most people will eventually encounter one in their lifetime.1
Psychopaths Think You’re “Stupid”
In one of his lectures, Jordan Peterson describes the mindset of a psychopath. He notes that psychopaths often believe their victims are naive or unintelligent, deserving of being manipulated. Their belief in their own superiority drives this behavior, as they see their ability to fool others as proof of their own power and intelligence. Peterson adds, “If you were wiser, you’d know their tricks”.
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Anyone Can Be Fooled
Peterson emphasizes that psychopaths are highly skilled at deception, and virtually anyone can be manipulated by one. He cites Robert Hare, a psychologist who has studied psychopaths extensively. Hare found that even seasoned researchers can be convinced by a psychopath during interviews, only to realize later—upon reviewing footage—that they’ve been manipulated.2
Don’t Be Too Polite
Peterson advises against being overly polite when dealing with psychopaths. He explains that politeness can prevent someone from objecting to manipulative behavior, allowing a psychopath to unfold their strategy undeterred. “The probability that you will be immune to their manipulation is extraordinarily low,” says Peterson.
Skilled Manipulators
Psychopaths excel at manipulating others. They often use charm and confidence to exploit people, with the ability to make their actions appear reasonable or even justified. Peterson stresses that psychopaths are experts at reading and manipulating social cues, making them extremely dangerous if not recognized.
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Intelligence Doesn’t Protect You
Contrary to popular belief, intelligence does not protect someone from being manipulated by a psychopath. Robert Hare, who conducted hundreds of interviews with psychopaths, discovered that intelligence alone is not enough to see through their manipulative tactics.
Key Traits to Look For
Peterson and Hare agree on several key traits that psychopaths commonly display. These include a grandiose sense of self-worth, lack of empathy, and a manipulative nature. Psychopaths view others as either pawns to manipulate or obstacles to overcome, and they justify their actions by believing they are superior.
The Importance of Awareness
Peterson concludes by urging people to be aware of the subtle signs of psychopathy in their interactions. Being mindful of manipulative tactics and understanding the underlying thought processes of a psychopath can help individuals protect themselves from exploitation.