Therapist Patric Gagne has recently gained attention for her forthcoming book on sociopathy, as she herself is a diagnosed sociopath. In a thought-provoking op-ed adapted from the book and featured in the Wall Street Journal, Gagne candidly shares her experiences and challenges as a sociopath.
Gagne discloses that as a young girl, she engaged in prolific thievery, not due to kleptomania, but as a result of an urge driven by the absence of common social emotions like shame and empathy. She explains that the act of stealing was a means to alleviate the relentless pressure in her brain and to evoke a sense of feeling, shedding light on the complexities of sociopathy.
Having gained a deeper understanding of her condition following her diagnosis, Gagne emphasizes the need to dispel the outdated notion that all sociopaths are inherently ‘evil’ or ‘crazy.’ She asserts that sociopathy exists on a spectrum and highlights that numerous individuals with this personality type lead fulfilling lives, with careers, close-knit families, and genuine friendships.
Gagne’s account serves to challenge prevailing misconceptions about sociopathy and aims to underscore that limited access to emotion does not equate to immorality. By sharing her story, she seeks to provide solace to others who may be grappling with similar experiences, emphasizing that they are not alone.
