Dennis Rader, also known as the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) killer, was a serial killer who terrorized Kansas, USA, between the 1970s and 1990s.
Psychopathy: Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by a lack of empathy, remorse, and a tendency to engage in manipulative and often antisocial behaviors. Psychopaths often exhibit superficial charm, grandiosity, impulsivity, and a willingness to exploit others for personal gain. They may also display a high degree of callousness and a profound inability to form meaningful emotional connections.
Narcissism: Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a separate personality disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Individuals with NPD have an exaggerated sense of self-importance, require excessive attention and admiration, and often exploit others to maintain their self-image. They may also experience intense envy of others and have difficulty handling criticism or perceived slights.
As for the difference between a narcissist and a malignant narcissist:
A narcissist, as described above, is someone who has Narcissistic Personality Disorder, displaying a consistent pattern of self-centeredness and an inflated sense of self-importance.
A malignant narcissist is a term used to describe individuals who not only exhibit the traits of NPD but also demonstrate a more malicious and malevolent nature. Malignant narcissists are often manipulative, cunning, and willing to harm others emotionally or psychologically to achieve their goals. They may engage in gaslighting, emotional abuse, and manipulation without remorse or guilt.
It's important to remember that diagnosing someone with a personality disorder requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified mental health professional. While public information about Dennis Rader suggests he displayed traits consistent with both psychopathy and narcissism, only a professional assessment can provide a definitive diagnosis.