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Psychopaths as abusers
Oct. 11th, 2007 09:47 amFrom what I understand, the term "psychopath" is being phased out of the vocabulary of mental health professionals. Most professionals now use "sociopath" or "antisocial personality disorder" as a blanket descriptor of what I see as a highly abusive personality.
I think all abuse starts when the abuser fails to see his or her partner, children, parents, etc. as human beings and instead perceives them as objects. For example, the most abusive people I, personally, have encountered speak interchangably of their vehicle and their spouse as something "I have." [have as in 'own']
Progressing from that sort of thinking, I'm sure it's as infuriating for the abused spouse to say 'no' (or otherwise speak or act in opposition to the will of their abuser) as it would be for their car to not start when the key is turned in the ignition, or turn left when the driver is turning the steering wheel to the right. From that viewpoint, one can almost empathize with the resulting fear, rage, and abuse that ensues on the part of the abuser. Almost. Because, really, as sane and decent humans, we understand that people and even pets are NOT objects to be owned, but living beings with their own needs and desires, just as we are.
Anyway, enough editorializing. I wanted to share exerpts from a website I found http://www.churchcorporate.com/Psychopaths.html
This page speaks of viewing religous leaders in terms of pathology, and being careful which spiritual shepherd to trust with your sheep, so to speak. But I think there is a whole lot in common between religious cult leaders and abusive people in one-on-one relationships.
( Read more... )
I think all abuse starts when the abuser fails to see his or her partner, children, parents, etc. as human beings and instead perceives them as objects. For example, the most abusive people I, personally, have encountered speak interchangably of their vehicle and their spouse as something "I have." [have as in 'own']
Progressing from that sort of thinking, I'm sure it's as infuriating for the abused spouse to say 'no' (or otherwise speak or act in opposition to the will of their abuser) as it would be for their car to not start when the key is turned in the ignition, or turn left when the driver is turning the steering wheel to the right. From that viewpoint, one can almost empathize with the resulting fear, rage, and abuse that ensues on the part of the abuser. Almost. Because, really, as sane and decent humans, we understand that people and even pets are NOT objects to be owned, but living beings with their own needs and desires, just as we are.
Anyway, enough editorializing. I wanted to share exerpts from a website I found http://www.churchcorporate.com/Psychopaths.html
This page speaks of viewing religous leaders in terms of pathology, and being careful which spiritual shepherd to trust with your sheep, so to speak. But I think there is a whole lot in common between religious cult leaders and abusive people in one-on-one relationships.
( Read more... )
