A woman claiming to be diagnosed as a psychopath, clinically known as antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), has captivated audiences by detailing the chilling childhood interests she believes signaled her diagnosis. Through her TikTok handle, @victhepath, she sheds light on the early signs and experiences tied to one of the most misunderstood personality disorder.
Early Fascination with Morbid History
One of Vic’s earliest “morbid” interests emerged at the age of eight, when she became captivated by the Holocaust. She recalls spending hours absorbed in a small black book on the subject, which she discovered during a school book fair. Later, during a class trip to Washington D.C., she bypassed the Smithsonian in favor of the Holocaust Museum.
“I wasn’t interested in World War II as a whole—just specifically the Holocaust,” Vic explained in a video that has since garnered millions of views. Her fascination extended to writing reports on the Romanov family, particularly the tragic story of Grand Duchess Anastasia.
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Dark Tales and Ancient Rituals
Vic’s (alleged psychopath) childhood interests didn’t stop at historical tragedies. She was enthralled by the original Grimm fairy tales, known for their brutal themes of murder, betrayal, and cannibalism. These were far removed from the sanitized versions most children grow up with. “They were extremely morbid, not at all like the PG stories we know today,” she said.
Her intrigue also extended to ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans, particularly their rituals of human sacrifice. “The whole human sacrifice thing really intrigued me,” Vic admitted.
Greek mythology was another area of fascination. She drew parallels between the myth of the Labyrinth and modern dystopian tales like The Hunger Games, which involve young people battling for survival in deadly arenas.
Signs of a Psychopath
While Vic’s morbid childhood interests are striking, they align with certain traits often seen in individuals considered psychopaths, such as a lack of empathy and a heightened curiosity about violence. Psychopaths have traits like impulsivity, superficial charm, and insensitivity to punishment. However, it’s important to note that not all individuals with ASPD exhibit violent or dangerous behavior.
Psychologist Carly Dober cautions against assuming that such interests alone indicate a mental disorder. “It’s normal for children to explore morbid topics out of curiosity,” Dober explained. However, she added that if these interests interfere with daily life or health, professional intervention might be necessary.
Beyond the Stereotypes
While popular culture often portrays psychopaths as violent criminals, most people with ASPD lead lives that don’t involve such extremes. Vic, for instance, has discussed her struggles with long-term relationships and emotional depth, noting that she often seeks partners based purely on physical attraction.
Studies suggest that psychopathic traits are present in 1.2% of adult men and 0.3% to 0.7% of adult women in the U.S., with much higher rates observed in prison populations. However, the diagnosis of being a psychopath is nuanced, and many who display certain traits don’t meet the clinical threshold.
A Complex Journey
Vic’s candid reflections offer a rare glimpse into the mind of someone navigating life as a psychopath. While her childhood interests might seem unsettling, they provide context for understanding the complexity of this condition. As she continues to share her story, she challenges viewers to rethink their perceptions of psychopathy and the individuals who live with it.