Yes, it is possible for a person to be in a relationship with a high-functioning sociopath or psychopath and not be aware of their partner's true nature. High-functioning sociopaths and psychopaths are individuals who exhibit the traits and behaviors associated with antisocial personality disorder but are often adept at concealing their true nature and manipulating others.
These individuals can be charming, charismatic, and highly skilled at presenting a facade of normalcy and empathy. They may be adept at reading people and mimicking emotions, making it difficult for their partners to recognize their underlying personality disorder.
Some reasons why a person may not realize they are in a relationship with a high-functioning sociopath or psychopath include:
Deceptive behavior: These individuals are skilled at lying and manipulating others to get what they want. They may present a false image of themselves to their partners, making it challenging for the partner to see their true nature.
Emotional manipulation: High-functioning sociopaths and psychopaths are skilled at manipulating their partners' emotions and exploiting their vulnerabilities. This can create a strong emotional bond, making it difficult for the partner to see the manipulation.
Gaslighting: Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where the person makes their partner doubt their own perceptions, memories, and sanity. A high-functioning sociopath or psychopath may use gaslighting to maintain control over their partner and keep their true nature hidden.
Isolation: Sociopaths and psychopaths may try to isolate their partners from friends and family who might otherwise notice red flags or warn the partner about the person's behavior.
Lack of awareness about psychopathy: Many people have misconceptions about psychopathy and associate it with violent or overtly criminal behavior. As a result, they may not suspect that someone they are in a relationship with could be a high-functioning sociopath or psychopath.
It's important to note that not all charming or manipulative individuals are sociopaths or psychopaths, and diagnosing such conditions requires the expertise of mental health professionals. If someone suspects they are in a relationship with a high-functioning sociopath or psychopath, seeking professional help, such as consulting with a therapist or counselor, can provide valuable insights and support in navigating the situation.