I'm a Sociopath. Ask Me Anything. - Summary

Summary

Here is a concise summary of the conversation with a self-described sociopath, Greg:

**Background**:

* Diagnosed with Antisocial Personality Disorder (sociopathy) at 21/22 years old
* Served prison time for multiple crimes (drug use, selling, retail thefts) last committed in 2011

**Insights into Sociopathy**:

* Defines sociopathy as being "irresponsible, impulsive, and reckless, like a child"
* Dispels the myth of sociopaths being inherently violent and malicious
* Admits to manipulating others, but frames it as a common human behavior

**Emotional Experience**:

* Claims to experience emotions, but not to the same depth as others
* Practices "cognitive empathy" by intentionally putting himself in others' shoes
* Didn't feel guilt or remorse in the past, but now regrets past actions

**Personal Life**:

* Has a son and partner, who motivate him to improve
* Acknowledges the genetic component of sociopathy and works to create a positive environment for his son
* No longer in therapy, instead opting for self-exploration with his partner's guidance

**Self-Awareness and Growth**:

* Believes he's learned to cope with his sociopathy, managing impulses to avoid self-destructive behavior
* Claims honesty during the conversation, stating it doesn't serve him to lie in this context

Facts

Here are the key facts extracted from the text, numbered and in short sentences, excluding opinions:

**Personal Facts**

1. The individual's name is Greg.
2. Greg is currently 33 years old.
3. Greg was diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder (sociopathy) at around 21-22 years old.

**Behavioral and Diagnostic Facts**

4. Greg has committed several crimes, including using and selling drugs, and multiple retail thefts.
5. The last time Greg committed a crime was in 2011.
6. Greg has been to prison, which he describes as one of the worst experiences of his life.
7. Greg's diagnosis was a relief to him, as it explained his feelings of being out of control.

**Relationship and Family Facts**

8. Greg has a son, who is a motivating factor for his personal improvement.
9. Greg has a partner, who has helped him become a better person.
10. Greg did not tell his parents about his diagnosis immediately; when he did, they didn't believe him.

**Therapy and Self-Improvement Facts**

11. Greg underwent cognitive behavioral therapy in prison.
12. After leaving prison, Greg did not continue with therapy but now practices self-led exploration.

**Other Facts**

13. Greg experiences emotions, including love, but possibly not to the same depth as others.
14. Greg's emotional experience affects his memory, making it harder for him to store memories.
15. Greg believes there is a huge genetic component to sociopathy, which concerns him regarding his son.