How to spot a psychopath at work - from a man who worried he could be one
Geraint Anderson says some modern workplaces reward psychopathic traits.
Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by a lack of empathy and a tendency to manipulate others for personal gain. Geraint Anderson, a former banker and author, believes he may have exhibited situational psychopathic traits in his successful career in finance. He thrived in a cut-throat environment where confidence, control, and decisiveness were highly valued.
Anderson's adaptability and glib charm were seen as advantages in the corporate world, allowing him to excel despite lacking emotional connections to his work and colleagues. While some may argue that certain psychopathic traits are beneficial in the workplace, experts caution against promoting such individuals, as their lack of empathy can lead to exploitative behavior.
Ultimately, Anderson left the finance industry disillusioned, realizing that he wanted to be a "warmer person" focused on integrity and genuine relationships.
Written by urgent.news from BBC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.