Menachem M. Kiwak Ph.D, LMHC

It can be unsettling to think that a small child might display symptoms of psychopathy. However, renowned psychopathy researcher Dr. Robert D. Hare has emphasized that elements of this personality disorder can become evident very early in life.

Understanding Psychopathic Traits in Children

Labeling a child as a psychopath is highly stigmatized, so terms like “impulse-ridden personality” or “tension-discharge disorder” are often used instead. These terms acknowledge that problems in young children may be temporary and that there is hope for change. Some psychopathic traits, particularly callous-unemotional (CU) traits, can be observed in childhood. These traits, associated with a lack of empathy, guilt, or remorse, are considered developmental precursors to psychopathy.

Children displaying CU traits can exhibit behaviors that deeply concern caregivers. Normal interactions with siblings and peers may be disrupted, and in extreme cases, these children may cause physical harm to others or animals.

Early Signs and Behavioral Indicators

A notable early sign of CU traits is a lack of eye contact. Studies show that children with high levels of CU traits are less likely to establish eye contact with their mothers compared to other children with disruptive behaviors. Eye contact is crucial for early social communication and the development of the social brain.

Reflecting on personal experiences, it’s evident that we can sometimes miss the signs in those closest to us. My sister, for instance, displayed psychopathic traits from an early age. My father later revealed that she rarely made eye contact with him when she was young, a sign he hadn’t shared before.

Behavioral Development and Parental Concerns

As my sister grew older, her boldness and defiance became more pronounced. Her fifth-grade teacher, a mother of five, noticed something different about her that she couldn’t pinpoint. My sister’s indifference to school rules and her ability to spin believable lies without detection were troubling.

In Dr. Hare’s book “Without Conscience,” he recounts the story of Susan, a girl caught flushing her kitten down the toilet. Susan showed no concern for her actions and was more upset about being caught. Her parents noted that they were never able to get close to her, even as an infant.

Animal Cruelty as a Warning Sign

Physical abuse of animals is often an early indicator of psychopathic tendencies, but neglect can also be a warning sign. My sister, for example, lost interest in a puppy shortly after receiving it. She stopped taking care of it, and the dog was eventually abandoned and died of distemper at a kennel. My sister’s indifference to the puppy’s death was alarming.

Conclusion

Recognizing signs of psychopathic behavior in children is crucial for early intervention and support. While these traits can be deeply concerning, understanding them and providing appropriate care can offer hope for change. Psychopathy may be innate, but with the right approach, it’s possible to address these behaviors and support healthier development.

This post is based on insights from Dr. Robert D. Hare and other researchers in the field of psychopathy. The original article was reviewed by Abigail Fagan and published on August 6, 2024.