Are you a
psychopath?
Sorry for being so direct, but it’s the question at the heart of a new test concocted by Oxford’s Professor Kevin Dutton for Britain’s Channel Four network. With just a handful of questions that anyone can easily answer in 5 minutes, the online quiz claims to be able to determine how close you are to meeting the definition of a psychopath–that is, a person who “….display[s] anti-social behaviour, lack of empathy and remorse, and fearless dominance.”
I scored a 12%, which the test tells me indicates I’m chockfull of empathy, but also at risk of being exploited by those who score much higher on the test–which based on my Twitter friends is pretty much everyone.
While the legitimacy of such tests are always suspect, taking them does help to generate conversation and reflect on how we treat other people and exist in this world. If you’re not comfortable sharing your score, feel free to talk about how accurate you think the test is and whether the results accurate reflect who you are or if you were surprised by them.
24%
Such a softie…!
Fascinating. Although a very basic test it seems to have some accuracy. I scored 42%, which is under the average for men and seems about right. The 68% for readers of the Financial Times seems about right too! I like the way this is positioned so that some “psychopathic” traits are actually useful. But I also get a feeling they need to find a better word to describe peeps like me who can be strong when needed and empathic when needed. The generic word “psychopath” cannot but bring forth images of Hitler and dear Mr Hanibal! I found it useful.… Read more »
45%
“Though your conscience is in the right place you also have a pragmatic streak and generally aren’t afraid to do your own dirty work! You’re no shrinking violet – but no daredevil either. You generally have little trouble seeing things from another person’s perspective but, at the same time, are no pushover. ‘Everything in moderation – including moderation’ might sum up your approach to life.”
Yeah, pretty much on the nose.
I got a 30%. I’m not surprised.
52%
Not quite what I expected. It was interesting to see that is considered normal for my gender.
Well you guys, I am a vulnerable little bunny rabbit – I only scored 6%: “You are warm and empathic with a heightened awareness of social responsibility and a strong sense of conscience. You like to carefully weigh up the pros and cons of a situation before you act and are generally averse to taking risks. You are very much a ‘people person’ and dislike conflict. ‘Do unto others…’ are your watchwords. But, although you avoid hurting others, those residing at the higher end of the psychopathic spectrum might not be as considerate, so stay vigilant to avoid being hurt… Read more »
45%
“Though your conscience is in the right place you also have a pragmatic streak and generally aren’t afraid to do your own dirty work! You’re no shrinking violet – but no daredevil either. You generally have little trouble seeing things from another person’s perspective but, at the same time, are no pushover. ‘Everything in moderation – including moderation’ might sum up your approach to life.”
Sounds about right.
Okay, I literally just watched Mr. Ripley last night for the first time ever last night before going to bed. So this column feels especially apropos.
I scored 24%, which means I often get taken advantage of by psychopaths. And don’t I know it! It’s part of the reason I never wear flip-flops.