Yes, it is possible for a sociopath with a high level of self-awareness to behave in an empathetic way, even if they do not genuinely feel empathy. This behavior is often referred to as "cognitive empathy" or "pseudo-empathy."
Cognitive empathy involves the ability to understand and recognize the emotions and perspectives of others without necessarily experiencing those emotions oneself. In this case, the sociopath may intellectually understand what emotions someone else might be feeling in a particular situation, and they may use that understanding to mimic empathetic responses.
This behavior can be a result of several factors:
Self-preservation: A highly self-aware sociopath may recognize that openly displaying their lack of empathy could lead to negative consequences, such as social isolation or legal repercussions. They may learn to mimic empathetic responses as a way to maintain relationships or avoid detection.
Manipulation and control: Sociopaths are known for their manipulative tendencies, and displaying empathy when needed can be a tool to gain trust and control over others. By pretending to care about someone's feelings, they can exploit and use that person to their advantage.
Social camouflage: Sociopaths may observe and learn socially acceptable behaviors from others to blend in with society. Behaving empathetically may be part of their efforts to appear "normal" and avoid drawing attention to their true nature.
Personal gain: In certain situations, a self-aware sociopath may realize that showing empathy and concern can lead to benefits for themselves, such as receiving help or resources from others.
It's important to note that while some sociopaths can exhibit pseudo-empathy, their underlying lack of genuine empathy remains unchanged. They may still act in harmful ways when it serves their interests, and their empathy-like behaviors are often strategic rather than driven by true concern for others' well-being.
For those interacting with individuals who display cognitive empathy, it's essential to maintain healthy skepticism and boundaries. Recognizing the difference between genuine empathy and strategic behavior can help protect oneself from potential manipulation or harm. Additionally, if someone suspects they are dealing with a sociopath or are struggling with their own behavior, seeking guidance from mental health professionals can be beneficial in understanding and managing the situation appropriately.