How to spot a psychopath at work - from a man who worried he could be one
Summary
Geraint Anderson, a former London banker, said he showed some psychopathic traits to succeed in the high-pressure finance world. He explained that traits like confidence, emotional detachment, and manipulation can be rewarded in corporate jobs, but these same traits are also linked to psychopathy, a mental disorder marked by lack of empathy and guilt.Key Facts
- Geraint Anderson worked 12 years as a trader in London and earned millions before leaving before the 2008 financial crash.
- Anderson was told by a clinical psychologist he may have had "situational psychopathy" to thrive in finance.
- Psychopathic traits include manipulating others, lack of guilt, irresponsibility, and difficulty maintaining relationships.
- Anderson changed his appearance and personality to fit into the finance world.
- Success and bonuses became a way for Anderson to measure his worth.
- Psychopathy is measured by a checklist called the PCL-R, with scores above 25 indicating psychopathy; Anderson rated himself around 8 or 9.
- Psychopathy involves lack of empathy but can sometimes help people become strong leaders.
- Psychologist Robert Snowden advised not to promote or marry psychopaths due to their harmful traits.
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