TikTok Psychopaths: Content Creators Turning to Social Media to Destigmatize Their Personality Disorders
For centuries, people have been fascinated with psychopaths. True crime and fictional crime play a big role in today’s entertainment, from podcasts to films, from documentaries to novels. Most people have heard of serial killers like Ted Bundy, Charles Manson, and Jack the Ripper, as well as fictional ones like Hannibal Lecter, Norman Bates, and Patrick Bateman. There’s a widespread notion of psychopaths being charismatic and merciless evildoers incapable of human emotion. So it may feel shocking to scroll through TikTok and see a person with a personality disorder introducing themselves as a diagnosed psychopath.
What is a Psychopath?
Despite the popularity of the term, psychopathy isn’t typically used in medical settings. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) doesn’t use it, neither does the American Psychiatric Association, World Health Organization, and many others. This is because psychopaths are often considered evil people who cannot change or be helped. Instead, psychologists and psychiatrists use the term antisocial personality disorder (ASPD).
Living With a Personality Disorder
One notable creator, Vic Path, known as @victhepath on TikTok, challenges the stigma surrounding ASPD by sharing her experiences. She discusses how she received her diagnosis at 19 years old and how she can feel empathy, despite common misconceptions about psychopaths.
“We Can be Good People”
Another TikTok creator, Cherry, or @thatplasticbitch, who identifies as a sociopath, shares her journey of managing her symptoms and striving to become a better person. She emphasizes the importance of understanding what a sociopath truly is and fights against the negative portrayals in media.
Don’t Self-Diagnose a Personality Disorder
While these accounts aim to destigmatize personality disorders, professionals warn against self-diagnosing. It’s crucial to seek help from a licensed professional if you or someone you know exhibit traits of ASPD.
It’s Not the People, It’s the Behavior
Dr. Abigail Marsh, a professor and leading researcher in psychopathy, emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between stigmatizing the disorder and addressing harmful behaviors. While ASPD is not synonymous with criminal behavior, it’s essential to manage and address problematic actions.
Through platforms like TikTok, individuals like Vic and Cherry are working to change perceptions and open up conversations about personality disorders, ultimately striving to create a more understanding and accepting society.
