sociopath etymology

Etymology:

  • The term "sociopath" is derived from the Latin roots:
    • Socio-: Society, social relationships
    • -path: Suffering, disease

Meaning:

A sociopath is an individual who exhibits a chronic pattern of disregard for social norms and rules, often characterized by:

  • Antisocial behavior
  • Lack of empathy
  • Impulsivity
  • Irresponsibility
  • Deceitfulness
  • Criminal behavior

Origin:

The term "sociopath" was first coined in 1909 by American psychiatrist Dr. George Edward Partridge in his article "The Psychology of Religious Madness." Partridge used the term to describe individuals who exhibited a pathological indifference to social norms and values.

In 1941, American psychiatrist Dr. Hervey M. Cleckley further developed the concept of sociopathy in his book "The Mask of Sanity." Cleckley described sociopaths as having a "mask of sanity" that concealed their underlying antisocial tendencies.

Over time, the term "sociopath" has been used interchangeably with the terms "antisocial personality disorder" and "psychopath." However, there is some debate among mental health professionals about the precise distinctions between these conditions.

sociopath relate terms

  • psychopath

    Etymology The word psychopath is derived from the Greek words psyche ψυχή me

  • psychopathic

    Etymology Psycho Greek Mind soul Pathos Greek Feeling suffering Meaning Psyc

  • socio

    Etymology and Origin of Socio The word socio has its roots in two Latin terms soc