Originally Posted by SkyHigh

Sociopath

Antisocial personality disorder (APD) is a personality disorder which is often characterised by antisocial and impulsive behaviour. APD is generally considered to be the same as, or similar to, the disorder that was previously known as psychopathic or sociopathic personality disorder. Approximately 3% of men and 1% of women have some form of antisocial personality disorder (source: DSM-IV).


sociopath (soh-see-uh-path, soh-shee-uh-path)

Someone whose social behavior is extremely abnormal. Sociopaths are interested only in their personal needs and desires, without concern for the effects of their behavior on others

It has always seemed to me that certain career paths draw a high percentage of people who fit the description above. Attorneys, police officers, military and of course aviation seem to me have a very high number of people who display sociopathic behaviors. Most would find it difficult to sue others for personal profit however we all know that there are Attorneys who make a good living doing exactly that. We all mostly hear the term in reference to evil deeds however most Sociopaths are able to function normally within the limits of society.

It seems to me that Sociopaths do well as pilots since they live a self centered and personally disconnected life. Airline pilots usually fly with different people each month and move aimlessly across the country from base to base, job to job. Many of the most successful ones do not display any remorse or hardship for leaving friends and family behind. No connections to home, country or company. It must be an asset.

No empathy, no remorse no sense of loss.

Skyhigh