Conscience is not there in a psychopath. If a psychopath is lying to you in order to steal your money, any moral qualms may not be felt by them, though he may pretend to. Observing others might be done and then acting the way they do in order for himself to be not found out
On the other hand, a sociopath typically has a conscience, but it’s weak. A sociopath may know that taking money is not right, and some guilt or remorse might be felt, but that won’t stop the behavior.
Both psychopath and sociopath lack empathy which is the ability to stand in someone else’s shoes and understanding how they feel. But there is less regard for others for a psychopath. Others are seen as objects which can be used for their own benefit with this personality.
It is shown in movies and TV shows that psychopaths and sociopaths are generally the villains who kill or torture innocent people. In reality, some of the people with antisocial personality disorder can be violent, but most of them are not. Instead manipulation and reckless behavior is used to get what they want.
At worst, they can be cold, calculating killers. But others are skilled at mounting their way up the corporate ladder, even if someone has to get hurt to get there.
If you recognize some of these traits in a family member or coworker, you may be tempted to think you’re living or working with a psychopath or sociopath. But just because a person is mean or selfish, it doesn’t necessarily mean he has a disorder.
Spotting a psychopath is not easy as they can be intelligent, charming, and good at faking emotions. They might be pretending to be interested in you, but in reality, they probably don’t care.
Sociopaths are less likely to play along and they make it clear that they’re not interested in anyone but themselves. Others are often blamed by them and have excuses for their behavior.
Some experts have said that sociopaths as “hot-headed.” And they act without thinking how others will be affected.
Psychopaths are said to be more “cold-hearted” and calculating as they carefully plot their moves, and aggression is used in a planned-out way to get what they want. If money or status in the office is what they are after more, for example, they’ll make a plan to take out any barriers that come in the way, even if it’s another person’s job or reputation.
Recent study recommends a psychopath’s brain is not like other people. Physical differences might be there that make it hard for the person to identify with someone else’s distress.
The basic body functions can be changed by the differences. For example, when blood or violence in a movie is seen by most people, their hearts beat faster, their breathing quickens, and their palms get sweaty.
A psychopath has the reverse reaction and gets calmer. This quality helps psychopaths in being fearless and engaging in risky behavior.