Q1
Psychopaths are characterized by an antisocial personality that is caused by dysfunction of the brain. This dysfunction makes them unabashed in any activity they undertake. Therefore, psychopaths become quite egocentric and desire to exercise power, authority, and control over their peers. Martin (2006) describes the life of Richard Kuklinski , who was a psychopath, and points out that his state of mental dysfunction compelled him to “lust for publicity”. This point implies that psychopaths are characterized by dysfunctions in the orbitofrontal cortex. Such dysfunctions trigger antisocial or deviant behavior such as crime. The brain dysfunctions compel psychopaths to pursue sadistic gratification and related criminal activities.
Q2
If my child began showing traits related to psychopathy, I would be alarmed. I would be particularly alarmed because psychopathy is a dangerous trait that often leads to a stigma in the community. On many occasions, psychopaths are perceived to be individuals with “faulty brakes” since they ignore cues of danger. Generally, if my child manifests these traits, I would seek immediate help from psychologists and behavior therapists. Enquiring from a psychologist is a step towards remediation.
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Q3
Taking my child to a psychologist is a step I would not hesitate to take. According to Carlo (2007), people are often uncomfortable around psychopaths because of their social deviance. For this reason, I would collaborate with doctors, psychologists, and therapists to guide me on how to address my child’s impulsive behavior. Carlo’s (2007) posit that psychopaths often lack guilt, remorse, and empathy in their undertakings. Moreover, these individuals are not likely to defer gratification of callous activities. Against this backdrop, I would proceed with speed to seek professional assistance.
Q4
If a psychologist confirmed that my child is a psychopath, I would undertake certain steps to contain my child's behavior. First, I would devote my time and attention to the child for impulse control and emotional regulation. Spending time together is a step that would prevent the child from engaging in destructive behavior. Second, I would engage the child in physical activities around the home. After the child has undertaken assigned chores, I would appreciate or reward them. Appreciation will establish an emotional connection. In my daily associations with the child, I would use positive reinforcement. By showing the child affection and love, they will feel accepted in the family. Finally, I would work closely with social support providers such as the National Association of the Mentally Ill. Such support providers will assist in regulating the behavior of my child.
Q5
I think my child’s behavior can be changed. From a study by Martin (2006), it emerges that lack of affection hardens a child’s heart and inclines it towards antisocial behavior. I believe that psychopaths lack an important element in their lives. The greatest challenge psychopaths experience is the social and emotional distance with parents. To reverse antisocial behavior, I will endeavor to bridge the social distance with my child. Bridging social distance will be an opportunity for bonding with the child. Particularly, I will use a reward system that makes the child feel valued. Adequate interaction with my child is likely to change their behavior.
Q6
If I have a second child, I would not leave him alone with the psychopath. I would not leave the second child with the psychopath since the behavior of the psychopath is unpredictable and may turn out to be hostile. Instead of leaving the two children together, I would accompany them most of the time. On occasions when I am engaged in daily chores, I would keep a watchful eye on the children from a distance. The psychopath may harass the little child and harm them. My presence is, therefore, important in barring deviant behavior.
References
Carlo, P. (2007). The iceman: confessions of a Mafia contract killer . Macmillan.
Martin, D. (2006, March 9). Richard Kuklinski, 70, a Killer of Many People and Many Ways, Dies. The New York Times . https://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/09/nyregion/richard- kuklinski-70-a-killer-of-many-people-and-many-ways-dies.html
