Comments on: Empathy Defecit Disorder?

By: adamdenker

adamdenker — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 02:33:16 +0000

I probably wasnt clear. I DO believe that this is a genuine disorder. I just think that too often, people create disorders to explain all kinds of irresponsible or hurtful behavior. In this case, however, I think it is a real disorder.

By: 4wrdthnkndad

4wrdthnkndad — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 01:26:07 +0000

While I “empathize” with many of your observations, I do believe there are adults incapable of being empathic towards another human being. Granted, it is hard to imagine what percentage of the population may fit this category, I can see how it could be classified as a disorder. Historically, I think a lack of empathy has been lumped in as a characteristic of other disorders. Because I believe it is safe to assume that there are many killers, robbers, and criminals who are incapable of experiencing empathy towards the victims of their crimes. I would be curious to hear what the criteria are for this diagnosis. As for recovery, I suspect the ones who are unable to do a moral inventory, and recognize moments where there alcohol contributed to pain or injury caused to others could struggle with achieving and sustaining sobriety.

By: blouie2

blouie2 — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:15:43 +0000

you honesty and insight about yourself reveal some real searching. i have a problem on the other side of the spectrum of empathy. i’ve often wondered if a person with a lack of empathy could change, or if an extermely self centered person could snap out of it. sounds like your doing good work.
blouie2