2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #2 discussion

We get a detailed analysis about the characteristic of a sociopath. Did it help you distinguish them from psychopaths? Did you learn anything new?

I did. I labeled Alex as a psychopath because she seems so coldhearted and doesn't really care about people, only her own needs/wants. According to the book, a sociopath "could never find a sense of moral responsibility; could never defy their innate nature and feel guilty. "

When Kim asked Sarah why she labeled her sister as a sociopath she responded that she has never had an emotional attachment to anyone or anything. I thought that was a psychopath. I guess I used both terms interchangeably in the past.

I found the definition immensely helpful. Lauren has clarified the term psychopath for me in the past (they have violent tendencies) but I never explored the characteristics of a sociopath, even having read so many books with these type characters. This was really enlightening. I did learn a lot, especially what you highlighted, Sharon.

At the end of the book in the Acknowledgements, we are given the names of a couple of books used for researching this topic, lending credence to the idea that the definitions given in the book are accurate. I appreciate knowing that.

I find the difference between these two disorders often becomes confused in thrillers. Authors don't always make the distinction that psychiatrists do.
Alex is a classic sociopath. She manipulates people for her own amusement or gain.

If anyone has a truly strong stomach, there is a fantastic and really disturbing book that illustrates the real nature of a psychopath and their uncontrollable desires, which distinguish them from sociopaths, who are all about control - Rampage

While I recommend the book as it is very well written, it really isn't for the faint of heart. There is also a movie from the 1990s which tones down the crimes a bit.

Lauren, the terms are used liberally in the genre, or allow the readers to infer them inaccurately. When I saw how Marsons took the time to elaborate on this one, I was grateful.

I really liked the way the distinction between the two became evident in this book. I felt the research was accurate & the author put a lot of care into getting it right. I also liked that she used Kim's former therapist (name escaping me) to deliver a detailed explanation of a sociopath when Kim went to ask for his help. It all fit within the realms of this story while being very informative for readers.