The terms "sociopath" and "psychopath" are often used interchangeably in common language, but they are not well-defined clinical diagnoses in the field of psychology. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the standard reference for mental health disorders, there is no official category for sociopathy or psychopathy. Instead, the DSM-5 uses the term "Antisocial Personality Disorder" (ASPD) to describe individuals who display a pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others.
Individuals with ASPD may engage in various harmful behaviors, including criminal activities, deceit, manipulation, and a lack of empathy or remorse. While not all people with ASPD become serial killers, some individuals with this disorder have been involved in violent and criminal acts, which can include serial killings.
It's essential to note that the overwhelming majority of people with ASPD or similar traits do not become serial killers or engage in violent crimes. Serial killers are an extreme minority within the population and often possess a unique combination of psychological, social, and environmental factors that contribute to their development.
Serial killers, regardless of the specific label applied to their personality traits, are characterized by committing a series of murders over time, typically with a cooling-off period between each murder. Their motivations can vary significantly, and not all of them have a diagnosable personality disorder like ASPD.
It's important not to stigmatize or stereotype individuals with any psychological condition, as most people with ASPD or related traits do not engage in violent behavior. Additionally, not all serial killers would necessarily meet the criteria for ASPD or any specific personality disorder, as serial killers can have diverse psychological profiles. Identifying and understanding the factors contributing to violent behavior is a complex and ongoing area of research in the fields of criminology and psychology.