Why Psychopaths Are So Charming (And Why That's Dangerous)

Could you spot a psychopath before it's too late, or does their charm switch off the very part of your brain that would warn you?

In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Emma Kavanagh to explore the psychology of psychopathy, why charismatic people can trigger the "guru effect" in our brains, and how love bombing, gaslighting, and trauma bonding trap people in damaging relationships.

Emma, author of The Psychopath Effect, explains the real traits behind psychopathy, meanness, boldness, and disinhibition and why psychopaths are far more likely to be charming colleagues or partners than violent criminals.

They discuss what it's like growing up with a psychopathic parent, how psychopaths behave differently depending on your value to them, and the subtle nonverbal signals that can give them away. A fascinating, myth-busting conversation for anyone interested in psychology, relationships, and personal safety.

#Psychopathy #Psychology #LoveBombing

00:00 Introduction00:37 Psychopathy myth vs fact quickfire round01:51 What is the Psychopath Effect?05:37 Why subclinical psychopathic traits affect everyone07:34 Growing up with a psychopathic parent11:37 Setting boundaries as an adult child14:10 Why individuation threatens psychopaths17:03 Can you spot a psychopath immediately?20:32 The "guru effect" and charisma on the brain22:54 Warning signs and interpersonal space23:54 Why psychopaths can be selectively empathic25:24 Upward licking, downward kicking at work25:55 Hand gestures, cognitive load and persuasion29:31 Nonverbal cues: the Duchenne smile31:35 Psychopathy, personality disorders and diagnosis37:09 Love bombing explained41:41 Recognising patterns in true crime documentaries45:35 Quickfire: common myths about psychopathy46:09 Why it's hard to leave a psychopathic partner46:57 Understanding trauma bonding50:22 Why psychopaths can't sustain kindness52:39 Where to find Dr Emma Kavanagh

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