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How to work out if someone you know is a psychopath or a sociopath?

Think psychopath and most of us will probably come up with fictional characters like Patrick Bateman, and famous serial killers like Ted Bundy or Jack the Ripper – maybe even Sherlock Holmes comes to mind, when we talk about sociopaths.

But psychologists say it’s actually a lot more complex than we might think, with these two antisocial personality disorders sharing a lot of the same traits.

The term sociopath, whilst often used to refer to someone who is acting in their own self-interest, manipulating others or lacking in empathy, isn’t actually recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a diagnosis in its own right.

Rather, sociopathic traits – like psychopathic ones – fall under the wider umbrella of dissocial personality disorder.

And while sociopathy and psychopathy do share a lot of characteristics, according to Justin Brown, an expert in psychological patterns, there are some important differences to be aware of.

‘People with psychopathy don’t feel much empathy or guilt,’ he explained.

‘They can be quite charming on the outside and fit in easily with other people, but on the inside, they have a hard difficulty making meaningful emotional connections.

‘Sociopaths, on the other hand, may have some idea of what is right and wrong, but they have difficulties controlling their impulses and generally have a history of disobeying laws or having trouble with authority.’

It is also not uncommon for sociopaths to act out more overtly. And with around one per cent of the UK’s population falling somewhere on the spectrum, it is important to know what tell-tale signs to look out for – with a high number of CEOs demonstrating this specific pattern of behaviour.

ut just because someone shows these traits, doesn’t necessarily mean they’re a sociopath, but knowing what to look out for can help you to set firmer boundaries.

Experts also believe that these people can change, and if someone is willing to look inwards and recognise these sociopathic traits, they have the chance of making meaningful connections.

Here, we break down the typical tendencies of sociopaths to look out for…

They will be aware of your every move and will never say sorry… and mean it

For centuries we’ve had a strong cultural sense of what a sociopath is: someone who takes no issue with inflicting pain and will manipulate and deceive those around them for personal gain.

From Bret Easton Ellis’ Patrick Bateman to Brontë’s Heathcliff, most of us feel pretty confident throwing this term around – but until recently, science hasn’t been able to offer a true distinction.

But just because someone shows these traits, doesn’t necessarily mean they’re a sociopath, but knowing what to look out for can help you to set firmer boundaries.

Experts also believe that these people can change, and if someone is willing to look inwards and recognise these sociopathic traits, they have the chance of making meaningful connections.

Here, we break down the typical tendencies of sociopaths to look out for…

They will be aware of your every move and will never say sorry… and mean it

For centuries we’ve had a strong cultural sense of what a sociopath is: someone who takes no issue with inflicting pain and will manipulate and deceive those around them for personal gain.

But now, brain scans show that sociopaths have different brain chemistry from the rest of the population.

‘Brain imaging studies show less activity in the circuits that generate fear and empathy,’ Dr Caitlyn McClure explains.

‘As a result, behaviour seems reward-focused, planned, and amazingly guilt-free.’

Therefore, it’s not unusual for sociopaths to engage in obsessive behaviour – which at times can culminate in aggression or violence when things don’t go their way.

And unfortunately, for many, this means their hunger for control and power trumps any interest for a deeper meaningful connection, leaving those around them feeling isolated and even gaslit at times.

Which is also why they find it very hard to apologise and actually mean it.

‘If you observe someone who always overlooks other people’s feelings, uses people to obtain what they want, or doesn’t seem to feel bad about what they’ve done, you should be careful,’ Brown warned.

‘Don’t get drawn in and set firm non-negotiable boundaries in your own mind. Focus on what you can control and decide how close you want to let someone like this into your life.’

No long-lasting relationships

While sociopaths have no problem charming a crowd, personal relationships tend to elude them.

This is mostly due to the fact that they struggle to understand and experience deeper more nuanced emotions like guilt, love and particularly, empathy.

And whilst their innate ability to mirror the positive attributes and behaviours of those around them may make it look like they have a lot of friends, when it comes to building more meaningful connections they often struggle.

As Dr McClure explains: ‘Instead of being absent, like psychopaths, attachment capacity is damaged in sociopaths, resulting in spontaneous outbursts that are motivated by frustration.’

This relates in part to how their brains are wired, meaning their capacity for emotional depth is usually somewhat limited, and can make them very unpredictable.

Claire Law, a psychotherapist and legal contributor at Custody X Change, added: ‘Sociopaths can be warm one moment and angry the next.

‘Their reactions are emotional, and they often act before considering what might happen after. This impulsivity makes their relationships more chaotic and unstable.’

They live life on the edge – and will always work their charm for their own advantage

Unlike psychopaths, who tend to be colder and more removed from social circles, sociopaths can be charming and tend to live very successful lives.

This is because they have a ‘naturally low anxiety temperament’, Dr McClure says, meaning that they are biologically predisposed to remain calm under pressure.

So while they may present themselves as an attractive friends, colleague or partner who has your best interest at heart, behind the scenes they are master manipulators.

As Sumeet Grover, a registered psychotherapist, explains: ‘Pulling you into their world gives them power and a sense of grandiosity. And it deflects what is really going on for them internally.

‘Their sense of self is fragmented and so they don’t feel in the same way as most people. They can be very charming, believable and relatable, while often lacking in a felt sense of empathy or remorse,’ he told The Telegraph.

Studies have even shown that in stressful situations, when most people’s heart rate would increase, a sociopath’s will remain the same, or even go down.

This means that they often underestimate risk and experience a delayed response to fear – and big emotions are often the only way they can feel.

Experts have theorised that because sociopaths cannot experience emotion in the same way as people without the personality disorder, they are driven to destruction by a subconscious desire to feel something.

As Patric Gagne, a clinical psychologist and self-proclaimed ’21st century sociopath’, writes in her book, Sociopath: ‘I was starting to understand why doing bad things made me feel…

‘However brief, it connected me to the way I imagined everyone else felt all the time… And we weren’t ‘bad’ or ‘evil’ or ‘crazy’, we just had a harder time with feelings. We acted out to fill a void.’

Daily Mail

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CEO of International Modern Hospital Dubai Dr. Kishan Pakkal: Nation-First Leadership Is Key to Advancing Healthcare Excellence

Dr. Kishan Pakkal, CEO of International Modern Hospital Dubai, believes that the words of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reflect a fundamental principle of responsible leadership, particularly within the healthcare sector, where the true measure of success extends beyond individual accomplishments to the wellbeing of the entire community.

According to Dr. Pakkal, the concept of responsibility as a trust carries special significance in healthcare, where every decision has a direct impact on patients, families, and society as a whole. He emphasizes that leadership in healthcare is not merely about managing institutions, but about ensuring that healthcare systems continue to deliver safe, high-quality, and sustainable care for all.

“Responsibility as a trust means placing people at the center of every decision,” said Dr. Pakkal. “In healthcare, our duty goes beyond providing treatment. It involves continuously improving the quality of care, investing in our medical professionals, and creating an environment that empowers them to perform at their very best.”

He added that one of the defining characteristics of successful leadership is the ability to create opportunities for others to succeed. In his view, a strong healthcare organization is built on collaboration, transparency, mutual respect, and shared accountability, where every member of the team contributes to a common purpose.

“A truly successful leader is one who enables others to achieve success as well,” he noted. “When healthcare professionals are supported, valued, and empowered, patients ultimately benefit from higher standards of care and better health outcomes.”

Dr. Pakkal further stressed that putting the nation’s interests above personal gain is particularly important in the healthcare sector, where decisions must always prioritize patient wellbeing, public health, and the long-term sustainability of healthcare services.

He explained that this principle aligns closely with the UAE’s vision of becoming a global leader in healthcare excellence, innovation, and quality of life. By focusing on the needs of patients and communities, healthcare institutions can play a vital role in supporting national development and strengthening the country’s position as a destination for world-class healthcare.

“The UAE has demonstrated that sustainable progress is achieved when leadership is guided by service, responsibility, and a commitment to the greater good,” said Dr. Pakkal. “As healthcare leaders, we have a responsibility to uphold these values by continuously striving for excellence, supporting our healthcare workforce, and ensuring that every decision contributes positively to the lives of those we serve.”

He concluded that nation-first leadership remains one of the most important drivers of progress in healthcare, helping organizations build trust, improve patient outcomes, and contribute meaningfully to the continued advancement of the UAE’s healthcare sector.

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Sickle Cell Disease in Newborns: Why Early Detection Can Save Lives

Dr Mamata Bothra, specialist pediatrics and neonatologist, International Modern Hospital Dubai Pedia IMH

Sickle cell disease is one of the most common inherited blood disorders worldwide and remains a significant public health concern in many regions, including the Middle East. Although affected babies often appear healthy at birth, the disease can begin causing serious complications during infancy if it is not detected and managed early.

Healthcare professionals emphasize that early screening, parental awareness, and timely medical intervention can dramatically improve outcomes and help children with sickle cell disease live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Understanding Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that affects hemoglobin, the protein inside red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. In healthy individuals, red blood cells are round and flexible, allowing them to move easily through blood vessels. In children born with sickle cell disease, however, red blood cells become rigid and crescent- or sickle-shaped.

These abnormal cells can block small blood vessels, reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to organs and tissues. As a result, affected children may experience painful episodes, chronic anemia, increased susceptibility to infections, delayed growth, and, in some cases, serious organ complications.

Because the disease is inherited, it is present from birth even if symptoms are not immediately visible.

The Critical Importance of Newborn Screening

One of the greatest challenges in managing sickle cell disease is that newborns often show no obvious signs of illness during the first months of life. This can create a false sense of reassurance for families while the disease remains undetected.

Newborn screening programs play a crucial role in identifying affected infants before symptoms develop. Early diagnosis allows healthcare providers to begin preventive care measures, closely monitor the child’s health, and educate parents about potential warning signs and complications.

Early detection also enables doctors to ensure that children receive appropriate vaccinations, preventive medications when necessary, and regular medical follow-up. Studies have consistently shown that children diagnosed through newborn screening have better survival rates and experience fewer severe complications than those diagnosed later in childhood.

Can Children with Sickle Cell Disease Live Normal Lives?

Advances in medical care have significantly improved the outlook for children born with sickle cell disease. Today, many patients grow up to lead active, productive, and successful lives.

The key lies in ongoing medical supervision and preventive care. Regular health check-ups, infection prevention strategies, adequate hydration, balanced nutrition, and prompt treatment of illnesses all contribute to better health outcomes.

Families who work closely with healthcare providers and follow recommended care plans can help reduce complications and improve their child’s quality of life.

Why Family Screening Matters

Prevention begins even before a baby is born. Since sickle cell disease is inherited, parental screening is an essential step in identifying potential risks.

A simple blood test can determine whether an individual carries the sickle cell trait. If both parents are carriers, there is a significant chance that their child may inherit sickle cell disease.

Knowing this information before or during pregnancy allows families to seek genetic counseling, better understand the risks involved, and make informed healthcare decisions. It also provides an opportunity for early planning and preparation should the baby be diagnosed with the condition.

Warning Signs Parents Should Never Ignore

Although symptoms can vary from one child to another, parents should seek immediate medical attention if their infant develops any of the following signs:

Fever
Swelling of the hands or feet
Unusual paleness
Poor feeding or refusal to feed
Excessive sleepiness
Breathing difficulties
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Persistent crying or signs of unexplained pain

Prompt medical evaluation can prevent complications and ensure that appropriate treatment is provided as early as possible.

Protecting Children Through Awareness

Beyond medical treatment, awareness remains one of the most powerful tools in combating the impact of sickle cell disease. Educating parents about the condition, encouraging participation in screening programs, and promoting genetic counseling can help reduce the burden of the disease on families and communities.

Healthcare professionals stress that while sickle cell disease can be a serious condition, it is no longer the life-limiting diagnosis it once was. Advances in screening, treatment, and supportive care have transformed outcomes for many children.

A Shared Responsibility

The fight against sickle cell disease begins with awareness and early action. Newborn screening programs, parental education, and access to specialized medical care are essential components of protecting affected children.

Every family should understand the importance of carrier screening before pregnancy, recognize the value of newborn testing, and remain alert to early symptoms during infancy. Through timely diagnosis and continuous care, children with sickle cell disease can thrive, achieve their potential, and enjoy a better quality of life.

Early screening saves lives. Family screening prevents surprises. And ongoing medical care gives children the best possible start for a healthier future.

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Naomi Watts urges women to own menopause

Oscar-nominated actress Naomi Watts has continued to have fame on the screen into her 50s, but she is building more of her life story around navigating deeply personal and often unspoken health and aging issues.She has become increasingly open about topics many public figures, and Hollywood actresses in particular, avoid, using her platform to normalize conversations regarding fertility, aging, and physical changes, with the goal of helping women feel confident in their body no matter their age.

“I am trying to put forward the messaging that we can be okay with how we look,” Watts told CNBC’s Julia Boorstin at the CNBC Changemakers Summit in New York City on Thursday. “It’s okay to be 57 and look 57.”

Watts launched Stripes Beauty in 2022, a company focused on helping women navigate the challenges associated with perimenopause and menopause, while aiming to address everything from skin to hair changes to overall wellness.

Menopause was considered very taboo to talk about in many cultures mainly because of the age-fertility link and generational gatekeeping. In many societies a woman’s “value” was tied to her youth and ability to bear children. Talking about menopause meant admitting those stages were over. Many women in different generations were taught to silence it and view it as a private burden and not share it.

At the Changemakers Summit, Watts said searched for reasons to help explain why no one talked about it, and even used an anonymous Instagram to search for clues. “Why isn’t there any information? Why is it so hard? Why is it so taboo when we are half the population?” she said. “It is just biology.”

Founder and chief creative officer at Stripes Beauty, Watts was featured on the 2025 CNBC Changemakers list.

Menopause typically occurs around ages 45 to 55 and gets diagnosed after a woman does not get her period for 12 months. According to information from Midi Health, whose CEO Joanna Strober was also named to the 2025 CNBC Changemakers list, 6,000 women hit menopause every day in the U.S., which equates to 1.3 million women annually, while four in five midlife women experience symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes.

Watts experienced early menopause in her mid-30s. She faced the common symptoms like night flashes and hot flashes. Watts has said in the past that she felt as if “I didn’t have control over my own body.”

Stripes Beauty has expanded into major retailers like Ulta Beauty and Sephora, with the once niche, uncomfortable category now becoming a mainstream part of women’s consumer health and beauty. The company was acquired in a deal between Watts and private investment firm L Catterton, which is backed by Louis Vuitton parent company LVMH, in 2024. It launched “National Hot Flash Day,” celebrated Sept. 9, to reinforce the message that the menopause journey is a completely natural and shared experience.

Watts says women should make “a bet on themselves” no matter what society is telling, or not telling, them.

“After 50, I have felt so much better about knowing who I am, so much more comfortable in my skin,” she said. “Stay connected to women. Women are everything. I am nothing without the community of women I have around me.”

Watts said in the past, when people came up to her in public, she often worried that requests to take selfies would follow, and she couldn’t help but think about being pictured without makeup on. But she says her menopause advocacy in recent years has changed many of these public interactions. “They’re coming up to me with tears in their eyes sometimes, or just wanting to say thank you for giving me the permission, or the dialogue, so I could speak with my husband or partner or family members and not have shame about it. … that gives me great joy. It’s so heartening to know the risk I took had a meaningful effect on others.”

CNBC