Psychopathy and related personality disorders

The spectrum of personality disorders

While many batterers act out of cultural learning, there is a subgroup where violence emanates from specific psychopathological disorders.

Clinical studies confirm a correlation between certain personality disorders and gender violence, highlighting traits such as impulsivity, lack of empathy and manipulation.

Among the "Cluster A" disorders (rare and eccentric), the paranoid personality stands out.

These subjects are characterized by a systematic and delusional distrust; they interpret any neutral act of their partner as a betrayal or an attempt to deceive.

They are rigid, do not tolerate criticism and respond to it with defensive hostility that can quickly escalate to physical or verbal aggression, justifying themselves in their distorted perception of reality.

Antisocial profile and lack of remorse

Within "Cluster B" (dramatic and erratic), antisocial personality disorder, also known as sociopathy, is one of the most dangerous in the couple context.

This profile is defined by a general pattern of contempt and violation of the rights of others.

The antisocial offender does not follow social norms, lacks remorse and exhibits persistent irresponsibility.

His relationship with the victim is purely utilitarian; he resorts to deception, swindling and manipulation without feeling any guilt.

Unlike other profiles that may attack because of emotional uncontrol, the antisocial person attacks because he considers that his needs are above the law and the integrity of others, showing a coldness and a capacity for calculation that hinders his rehabilitation.

Borderline instability and grandiose narcissism

Two other relevant profiles are borderline and narcissistic disorders. Borderline personality is characterized by extreme instability in relationships, self-image and affectivity.

These individuals oscillate between idealization and devaluation of their partner, and their anger attacks are often inappropriate and difficult to control, motivated by a frantic fear of real or imagined abandonment.

On the other hand, narcissistic disorder presents a pattern of grandiosity and a constant need for admiration.

The narcissistic aggressor believes he is special and unique, lacks empathy and exploits his partner to achieve his goals.

Violence arises when his ego is threatened or when he does not receive the "supply" of admiration he believes he deserves, responding with arrogance and punishing behaviors.

Summary

Although many act by learning, others present specific disorders. The paranoid personality stands out, characterized by delusional distrust and rigidity, interpreting neutral acts as betrayals that justify a constant defensive aggressiveness.

The antisocial or sociopathic profile is especially dangerous in couples. These subjects violate social norms, lack remorse and use the victim in a utilitarian way through deception and manipulation.

Also relevant are borderline profiles, with extreme emotional instability, and grandiose narcissists. The latter exploit their partner seeking constant admiration and attack with arrogance when their ego feels threatened.