
Sociopaths often turn on the charm when they first meet someone because they want that person to like them and be willing to do them favors. Watch out for someone superficially charming and persuasive. The difference is that a true sociopath won't let that feeling stop them from doing it again. It's not impossible for sociopaths to feel a little regret after doing something they know is wrong, like lying or cheating.Their lack of empathy typically means they have no shame in manipulating people to get their way. Sociopaths tend to crave power and control over other people and pursue it ruthlessly.

Because they don't feel remorse, a sociopath also won't accept any blame when someone confronts them about their behavior.X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source Without the ability to empathize, a sociopath will rationalize and defend their behavior because they don't care that they did something wrong. Individuals with APD cannot understand or relate to another person's feelings, so they don't often recognize when they hurt someone with lies, manipulation, or aggressive behavior. Look for a lack of empathy and remorse towards other people. If they notice their stare makes people nervous, they might use it for intimidation too. The cold, blank stare is called the "sociopath stare," characterized by a frighteningly emotionless look in the sociopath's eyes.

Someone who never seems anxious under any circumstances might be a sociopath.

