Difference between a psychopath and a sociopath?

Question

what is the difference between a psychopath and a sociopath? Is there a real clear distinction between the two? Is one just a more advance case of the other or something? Sometimes in media and fiction it almost seems as though the two terms are used interchangeably.

thx for your help

Answer 1

Nothing.Just different terminology.Just as MPD was changed to DID in the early 1990's to more accurately describe multiple personality syndrome.The words describe a person with a seared conscience.Sociopath is a more apt descriptor.

Answer 2

Actually was my understanding that a psychopath's problem stems from an internal problem, a psychological problem or dysfunction. While a sociopath has a problem that stems from external problems, social problems. Where usually a sociopath will have a charming personality and be very maniuplating, which a psychopath are typically extremely anti-social....