THE SOCIOPATH NEXT DOOR BY MARTHA STOUT

“The sociopath next door” by Martha Stout

“The sociopath next door” by Martha Stout

Q1.

To get the benefits of "sociopath insurance" There are three parts of the book I think is important to you as follows: (1) discussion of what a sociopath along with their stories illustrate the different types of sociopaths, (by the way, those stories would be a fine literary short stories with descriptive Language Stout and suspense building.) (2) Stout's "Thirteen rules for dealing with Sociopaths in Everyday Life", and (3) a discussion of how good people with a conscience will eventually allow sociopathic leaders coming to power and do horrific acts. If you read just these sections and skip all the philosophical discussions about sociopaths, you still get a lot from this book.

Stout gives us both the official version of the diagnostic DSM-IV American Psychiatric Association (their diagnostic manual) as well as a kind of "street guide" of what to look for. Essentially, a sociopath will glibly lie, charm and use others, no remorse over time hurt anyone. They are often but not always, more charismatic, charming and sexy than the average person. Take the murderer Scott Peterson for example (although Stout did not mention him): Women found him very attractive and charming, and were quick to believe his lies. Most sociopaths are not murderers, (just because they do not want to go to prison), but still detrimental to lying, stealing, and manipulating people.

Q2.

After learning how to identify sociopaths, Stout's "Thirteen Rules DealingWith Sociopaths in Everyday Life" (p. 156 - 162) are needed to read and worth the price of the book. All the rules are important. To paraphrase several: Rule 2 - If you gut tells you a man uncertain, even if it is in contrast to his high position in society, such as the leader of a doctor or community, your gut feeling. Rule 3 is the "Rule of Threes." If a person breaks one promise, it could be a misunderstanding. If they violate the two can be a serious mistake. But if they break three promises, you're dealing with a liar. Strike three are due to count your losses and leave as soon as possible. Stout advises "do not give your money, your work, your secrets, or your attachment to a three-timer."

Another optional section of the book is a discussion of how good people allow sociopaths to rise to ...