Reply #155: There's an old saying

[H2O Man]

about sociopaths: they know the words, but not the music. Thus, when most sociopaths have therapy, they are able to repeat the correct concepts, but not integrate them into their lives. For this reason, for example, sociopasths in forensic situations will frequently volunteer for group/individual therapy, but not invest in it. Rather, they manipulate to get a better deal for themselves.

Regarding a man in his late 20s, who was diagnosed at age 15: while I can only speculate, a few of the things you say make me wonder. Even 15 years ago, diagnosing sociopathy was not quite as accurate as today. A 15-year old would have needed much more than a share of scrapes with the law. In light of his IQ, is it possible that he was ASPD with narcissism, which might also explain a non-caring attitude, as well as relationship issues. I could be wrong, of course, but the connection with animals doesn't seem to fit. Of course, there are variations on everything. Were you comfortable with the diagnosis in terms of accuracy?