Invisibility is the most disturbing aspect of psychopathy. Psychopaths must keep their true nature hidden, and they know how to do it. They're skilled actors and mimics. After all, they can only dupe us if they can first make us believe they're honest, genuine and trustworthy. To do that, they have to come across as normal.
Is it possible to identify a psychopath? Yes, if you learn the signs that can help you spot one.
From the author of the unique and popular website, Psychopaths and Love.
"Wonderful read. Such a great gem. One of my favorite books about this subject as the author paints such a clear picture of what these relationships are like. If you're wondering if you are encountering a psychopath, read this book and you will know without a doubt."
"Great book. This book is clear about what one may experience with a psychopath. This may help those who struggle with understanding why their "soul mate" who shared such an amazing life could simply walk away or be abusive."
"The truth shall make you free. The description of typical behavior and common reaction to that behavior was more helpful to me in freeing myself than all the books on what a psychopath, sociopath or narcissist is. Who cares about definitions and diagnosis when it is the behavior that is killing you and is so well hidden from others that you look (and often feel) like the "crazy person" when in reality you are the "sacrificial lamb" of a crazy person."
In this book, I recognized several people from my past. This book will help anyone refrain from continuing to get into the trap of toxic relationships/friendships, whether the toxic one is a sociopath/psychopath, a narcissist, or a sociopath/narcissist with borderline personality disorder.
I was amazed at the accuracy of her descriptions. The book is well written and clear. I loved how the author integrated research findings into her explanations. I would have liked more of that because some things seemed to be more her personal experience rather than generalizable conclusions.
Initially repetitive, but long-run very insightful!!
I gave this book 4 stars due to the initial chapters describing psychopathy being repetitive (literally using same words & statements multiple times, but perhaps was intentional??). Once the chapters progressed towards the 'red flags' to notice & 'manipulation tactics', it began moving along much better & proved very insightful in not only descriptions of behaviors but also providing clear examples of said behavior descriptions. This also had good academic resources cited which have been written by PhD-accredited doctors & researchers, further helping give creedence to the author in proving & solidifying her experiences & clearly well-researched process attributed in writing it. A good resource and (IMHO) a book which should be required to all young adults prior to commencing their journey in the dating realm (as well as all adults seeking enlightenment for their own self-preservation)!!
If you're into psychopathy (and who isn't?), this is a great little book to read as a way of revisiting what psychopathy looks like - at least from the perspective of someone who had a relationship with one.
It could also be a great read for someone who's in a relationship with a partner who seems to have gone "cold" on them.
If your relationship is "doing your head in", then this is the book for you! It contains descriptions of "red flag" behaviour that may indicate that your troublesome "dearest" is in fact a "predator" whose only intent is to use you for their own amusement.
Read this book in bed after your potentially, psycopathic partner finally goes to sleep - this may give you time to leave the house before they wake up...
I appreciated the succinct and clear style of writing which made this book easy to digest and absorb. This type of information can sometimes be required in a hurry, so a fairly short book that does not waffle on, is perfect. I also appreciated the repetition of key points because it will help to anchor them in my mind.
I wish there had been a book like this in my teens that schools had recommended to read. With prevalence at 1 in 100, you are bound to encounter a psychopath. If you're an empath or vulnerable in some way, or have parents/siblings with these personality traits, you may be finding that you often 'attract' people from this minority group; not just partners, but work colleagues, friends and neighbours. Reading books like this can help restore your belief in your own intuition and confidence in the inklings we sense about others, but cant quite fathom.
I gave this 5* because it is written in very small chapters, and easy to understand, even for those without psychological training. Every victim should read this book, in fact anyone thinking of entering a relationship should read it. Psychology is my thing. I am fascinated to know what makes people's brains 'tick'. There were some very good ways to spot psychopaths. In fact there is a bit in all of us, except the few who decide to take it that step further. I would recommend this book 100%
This book presents in a succinct and easy to understand way all the traits of a psychopath, with clear examples. It is an eye opener for anyone who experienced abuse as reading it gives you the proper information to steer clear of such people in the future. I found myself highlighting many phrases and features I recognized in people I interacted with and shared my life with. It's painful to realise it but it's a guide I'll definitely read again and again.
Basically a checklist of common characteristics seen in individuals with psychopathy and psychopathic tendencies. Less a book and more like notes from scanning a dozen websites and research summaries. Eerie in how many of the “202” items describe Donald J Trump perfectly.
Clear description of abuse dished out by this personality disorder. I appreciated the explanation about trauma bonds. Dealing with one of these people is more damaging than most people can comprehend.
I just left an involvement w a psychopath and this book helped immensely. It explains so much. For anyone getting past a relationship w a psychopath, just know you are not alone!
This may seem slight in comparison to a typical review but I definitely appreciated the the use of both masculine and feminine pronouns in this book. Having just read a similar book and seeing sociopaths referred to consistently as "she/her", I felt this was a bit more grounded in the reality that sociopaths can't be summed up to a gender. The other book did not wittingly imply this, however, it's refusal to switch between male and female distinction did kind of annoy me still. This is a great intro into the studies of a sociopath. Not too deep but not shallow either. Definitely helpful to confirm or dismiss those hunches you can't explain about certain people you encounter.
I find this subject extremely fascinating. It is basically step by how to tell if what you suspect could possibly be what it might be. Very interesting and well written.
Informative book on psychopaths that all could stand to read. If your life has been intersected by a psychopath you will benefit from this book greatly.
simple and clear description of something that is neither simple or clear....a psychopathic relationship.
Excellent help for my recovery. I've already read it a few times and will read it again and again until I am fully healed and certain I won't ever let this happen to me again.