Why Psychopaths Are So Charming (And Why That's Dangerous)

Could you spot a psychopath before it's too late, or does their charm switch off the very part of your brain that would warn you?

In this episode of Psychology, Actually, Dr Marianne Trent is joined by Dr Emma Kavanagh to explore the psychology of psychopathy, why charismatic people can trigger the "guru effect" in our brains, and how love bombing, gaslighting, and trauma bonding trap people in damaging relationships.

Emma, author of The Psychopath Effect, explains the real traits behind psychopathy, meanness, boldness, and disinhibition and why psychopaths are far more likely to be charming colleagues or partners than violent criminals.

They discuss what it's like growing up with a psychopathic parent, how psychopaths behave differently depending on your value to them, and the subtle nonverbal signals that can give them away. A fascinating, myth-busting conversation for anyone interested in psychology, relationships, and personal safety.

#Psychopathy #Psychology #LoveBombing

• 00:00 Introduction
• 00:37 Psychopathy myth vs fact quickfire round
• 01:51 What is the Psychopath Effect?
• 05:37 Why subclinical psychopathic traits affect everyone
• 07:34 Growing up with a psychopathic parent
• 11:37 Setting boundaries as an adult child
• 14:10 Why individuation threatens psychopaths
• 17:03 Can you spot a psychopath immediately?
• 20:32 The "guru effect" and charisma on the brain
• 22:54 Warning signs and interpersonal space
• 23:54 Why psychopaths can be selectively empathic
• 25:24 Upward licking, downward kicking at work
• 25:55 Hand gestures, cognitive load and persuasion
• 29:31 Nonverbal cues: the Duchenne smile
• 31:35 Psychopathy, personality disorders and diagnosis
• 37:09 Love bombing explained
• 41:41 Recognising patterns in true crime documentaries
• 45:35 Quickfire: common myths about psychopathy
• 46:09 Why it's hard to leave a psychopathic partner
• 46:57 Understanding trauma bonding
• 50:22 Why psychopaths can't sustain kindness
• 52:39 Where to find Dr Emma Kavanagh

📚 Get your copy of The Psychopath Effect by Dr Emma Kavanagh: https://amzn.to/455qlUu

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Connect with Dr Emma Kavanagh here: https://www.instagram.com/dremmakavanaghauthor/

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This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, psychological, or professional advice. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk.

© Dr Marianne Trent

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Exciting News! The OTM Programme is open! Check out my Bonuses!

Psychologists! What if you could earn money beyond trading your time for money? I'm Dr Marianne Trent, Clinical Psychologist, and I've been developing passive and recurring income streams since 2019. I have some exciting news…. Sophie Foote's One to Many programme is NOW OPEN for enrolment! It's designed to help you turn your expertise into scalable offers like courses, memberships and digital products. I completed the programme myself in 2022 and have since supported two cohorts of psychologists through their journeys. And if you join through my affiliate link, you'll receive Sophie's bonuses PLUS my exclusive support package at no extra cost! That includes six months of WhatsApp support, four group masterminds, masterclasses, personalised guidance, and a very special Fortnum & Mason treat! Enrolment closes Monday 16 November at 10pm. Find out more via my bonus page, linked in the description. Remember, you must purchase through MY link to receive my bonuses! 💜 I’m here if you have any questions! https://www.aspiring-psychologist.co.uk/sophie-foote-bonus