Almost a Psychopath

July 1, 2012

In this entry in the "Almost Effect" series, former federal prosecutor Schouten and Silver (psychiatry, Harvard Medical Sch.) seek to address psychopathy, a problem located between neurosis and psychosis, in a manner accessible to the general public. Schouten and Silver provide many examples and walk readers through the process of diagnosis so that readers can discern true psychopathy from similar conditions. Chapters cover diagnostic criteria, workplace situations, relations with loved ones, children and abuse, malingering or feigned illness, and self-evaluation. Although the tone is positive, some examples provided are troubling. For instance, the chapter concerning handling "almost psychopaths" in the workplace suggests "buff up your resume and start the process of moving on." Can almost psychopaths change? How do almost psychopaths change the people around them? An outline for problem solving includes acknowledging/accepting the problem; refusing to be helpless; documenting abuse; reaching out to family, friends, and professionals; being willing to say something; and getting out of hurtful situations. VERDICT While the book provides excellent diagnostic examples, it lacks sufficient concrete, helpful tips for readers victimized by psychopaths, whether almost or real.--Nadine Dalton Speidel, Cuyahoga Cty. P.L., Parma, OH

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2012
In this fascinating look at psychopaths and almost psychopaths, Schouten and Silver ably tackle the spectrum of abnormal behavior. At one end are normal people. At the other are true psychopaths: egocentric and often charming people who engage in immoral and antisocial behavior and lack both remorse and empathy for their victims. Almost psychopaths behave in many of the same ways as true psychopaths, lying repeatedly and blaming others. The authors are eminently qualified to tackle the topic: Schouten is a forensic psychiatrist who teaches at Harvard Medical School, and Silver is a criminal defense attorney. They expertly weave together the results of scientific studies with the stories of real people (identified by first name). And they give tips for figuring out what might be another underlying problem, such as major depression, narcissistic personality disorder, or substance abuse. Their sobering bottom line: if anyone thinks he or she or anyone he or she knows is engaging in potentially psychopathic or illicit behavior, he or she must take action to prevent a Jerry Sanduskylike tragedy.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)