On social media, videos are frequently shared claiming that psychopathy can be seen directly in the eyes.
The message is typically that certain looks or a lack of eye contact reveal everything.
Psychologists and researchers warn against this simplification, as psychopathy cannot be assessed on the basis of isolated signs.
What is psychopathy?
Psychopathy is associated with antisocial personality disorder.
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According to the British health service, the NHS, it involves, among other things, a lack of guilt, little consideration for others, and repeated violations of social rules.
It is not a diagnosis that is made quickly, but one that requires thorough assessments over time.
The concept is also part of what is known as the “Dark Triad", which includes psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism.
Content creator Evelyn Reid, who has worked with the Dark Triad for many years, points out that these traits are often conflated, especially in popular explanations.
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Psychopathic traits
In an educational video, psychologist Dr. Todd Grande explains that researchers, among other things, examine pupil reactions.
Normally, pupils dilate rapidly when a person sees something unpleasant.
In individuals with high levels of certain psychopathic traits, this reaction may be weaker during the first few seconds.
Dr. Todd Grande also explains that psychopathic individuals may respond differently to smiles and happy faces.
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In some cases, smiles are perceived as threatening. However, these observations are used only as a small part of research and never on their own.
Why the eyes are not enough
The point that is often overlooked is that eye contact cannot be used as evidence.
Evelyn Reid emphasizes that psychopathic individuals can both avoid and maintain eye contact.
At the same time, similar patterns are seen in neurodivergent individuals.
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This means that psychopathy cannot be determined from the eyes alone.
According to both Evelyn Reid and Dr. Todd Grande, it requires many observations and professional assessment. A glance can never stand on its own.
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