Sociopathy and psychopathy are terms that have been used interchangeably to describe individuals with Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) in the past. However, in more recent psychiatric classifications, the term "psychopathy" is often associated with a more severe and ingrained form of ASPD, while "sociopathy" may be used to describe a less severe and more influenced-by-environment form of ASPD. In both cases, individuals with ASPD typically exhibit a lack of empathy and disregard for the rights of others.
As for emotions, it's essential to understand that all humans, including individuals with ASPD, have emotions. However, the way these emotions are experienced and expressed can vary significantly between individuals.
While psychopaths are often characterized by a pervasive emotional detachment and a lack of emotional depth, not all sociopaths or individuals with ASPD will display the same degree of emotional detachment. Some sociopaths may still experience emotions, but they might have difficulty understanding or relating to the emotions of others, which can lead to a lack of empathy.
It's important to recognize that the terms "sociopathy" and "psychopathy" are not formal psychiatric diagnoses, and the field of psychology and psychiatry continues to study and refine our understanding of these personality traits and disorders. The diagnostic criteria for ASPD can vary depending on the classification system used (e.g., DSM-5 or ICD-10), and individuals with ASPD can have diverse personalities and behaviors.
If you encounter someone whom you suspect may have ASPD or related traits, it's best to seek professional help from a mental health provider for a comprehensive evaluation and guidance on how to manage and cope with the situation appropriately.