The Mask of Sanity: An Attempt to Clarify Some Issues about the So-Called Psychopathic Personality

About this book

Although highly controversial, Hervey Cleckley's Mask of Sanity provides one of the most influential clinical descriptions of psychopathy in the 20th century. At the crux of his argument, Cleckley claims that many psychopathic personalities go undiagnosed because they maintain a social mask that conceals their mental disorder and enables them to blend in with society. Furthermore, many of these affected individuals appear to function normally in accordance with standard psychiatric criteria. Intent on detecting and diagnosing the elusive psychopath, Cleckley has compiled an assortment of case studies and offers suggestions for palliative care. This ambitious work aims to define and examine every aspect of this abstract state of being. Ultimately, Cleckley refines the term "psychopath" and strips it of stigmatization. This classic has transformed the psychiatric definition of sanity and continues to provide insight on American society and psychological introspection.

Details

Format

Paperback

ISBN-13

9781614277828

Publisher

Martino Fine Books

Published

February 18, 2015

Pages

570

Weight

30.6 oz

Subject

Psychology