If a person lacks empathy but is not a psychopath or a narcissist, they may exhibit traits associated with certain personality or character patterns. It's important to note that empathy exists on a spectrum, and some people naturally have lower empathy levels without necessarily having a personality disorder.
Schizoid Personality: People with schizoid personality traits often have difficulty expressing emotions and forming close relationships. They may appear emotionally detached, prefer solitary activities, and have limited interest in social interactions.
Avoidant Personality: Individuals with avoidant personality traits may avoid social situations due to feelings of inadequacy and fear of rejection. While they might have some empathy, their preoccupation with their own insecurities can make it challenging for them to fully connect with others emotionally.
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality: Those with obsessive-compulsive traits tend to focus on rules, order, and control. While not lacking empathy entirely, they may struggle with emotional expression and find it difficult to understand or relate to others' emotions.
Antisocial Personality (to a milder extent): While you mentioned that this person is not a psychopath, some individuals with milder antisocial traits might have difficulty empathizing with others due to their focus on their own goals and disregard for social norms.
It's crucial to remember that personality is complex and multi-faceted, and individuals may display a combination of various traits. Lacking empathy doesn't necessarily mean a person is "bad" or incapable of positive relationships, but it might impact their ability to connect deeply with others emotionally. If you or someone you know is facing challenges related to empathy or emotional connection, seeking professional help from a mental health professional can be beneficial.