Summary
Researchers argue against the traditional 6:1 male-to-female psychopath ratio, suggesting evidence of a closer 1.2:1 ratio. The study asserts that societal gender biases have obscured the real prevalence of female psychopaths, who often use manipulation and seduction rather than violence. This finding necessitates a reassessment of psychopathy definitions and indicates sizable implications for legal justice and corporate leadership.
Key Facts
- New Ratio Uncovered: Dr. Boddy’s research implies the real male-to-female psychopathy ratio could be as low as 1.2:1, indicating that female psychopaths are up to five times more prevalent than previously thought.
- Gender Bias in Identification: Traditional psychopathy measures, based on male criminal behavior, fail to detect the more manipulative and seductive tactics utilized by female psychopaths.
- Societal and Business Implications: The underestimation of female psychopaths has serious consequences for the criminal justice system and organisational leadership decisions, emphasizing a need for gender-inclusive assessment methods.
Source: Anglia Ruskin University
Comment
Female psychopaths being up to five times more common than previously thought, challenges current perceptions and calls for a reevaluation of diagnostic criteria which have shown to be heavily biased towards male psychopathy. Due to societal bias, female psychopaths often go undetected, employing manipulation, deceit and seductive behavior rather than displaying violent propensities. The implications extend beyond just the individual level, affecting criminal justice system risk management decisions, and potentially skewing perceptions in leadership selection decisions in organisational settings.
About The Research
Dr Clive Boddy, an expert in corporate psychopathy from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), has been researching the effects of psychopaths in the workplace since 2005, and has published more on corporate psychopaths than any other academic. His interests include toxic leadership and specifically the effects of corporate psychopaths on employees, organisations, and society.
Personal Statement:
“As a psychiatrist, this novel insight into female psychopathy prompts a reevaluation of our diagnostic processes. The societal bias towards male behaviour patterns in psychopathy identification is concerning. The significant implication on risk management, leadership decisions, and broader societal impact, calls for more comprehensive, gender-inclusive diagnostic measures. Further research is also needed to fully understand the different strategies employed by female psychopaths in various societal settings.”
Dr Elizabeth Johnson, MD, Cure of Mind