New study Reveals Prevalence of Female Psychopathy
A study presented at Cambridge suggests the prevalence of female psychopathy may be underestimated.
While typically thought to be six times more common in men, the researcher believes gender bias has obscured accurate rates.
Interviewing experts and analyzing prior work, he found women display psychopathic traits differently than men, making them less likely to be identified.
Specifically, female psychopaths tend to be more manipulative and deceitful while appearing caring.They also rely more on words than violence.
Accounting for these factors, the study estimates the actual gender ratio is closer to 1.2 males for every 1 female, up to five times higher than believed.
Dr. Clive Boddy said this has implications for risk assessment in criminal justice and organizational leadership selection which currently presume women are more honest and empathetic.
People usually associate psychopathic behavior with men. Because psychopathy is associated with men, girls who exhibit important features like insincerity, dishonesty, hostile, unempathy, and emotional depth may not be recognized as such, even when they should be.