Sociopath was an eye-opener for me. This memoir isn't your typical journey through someone's life. Dr. Patric Gagne takes us deep into the world of a sociopath - herself. It's a fascinating, raw, and sometimes chilling exploration of what it means to live with sociopathy.⁠
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Gagne describes her life with stark honesty, detailing her experiences of feeling certain emotions like happiness and anger, but missing out on others like shame, guilt, and remorse. The concept of "stuck stress" and her methods of coping with this emotional void through acts like breaking into homes and stealing cars are both terrifying and intriguing. It makes you ponder the fine line between feeling too little and feeling too much.⁠
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What struck me most was the portrayal of sociopathy not just as a disorder but as a misunderstood personality type. Gagne's relationship with her now-husband David adds a personal touch, showing how acceptance can ease the restlessness that comes from her condition. Yet, the book doesn't shy away from the complexities of sociopathy, such as the anxiety and stress from hiding one's true self and the notion that there's no treatment for it.⁠
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Gagne's indifference to others' opinions and her candidness are admirable. It made me wonder if, as she suggests, there's a spectrum of sociopathy that we're all on to some extent. ⁠
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Sociopath is a thought-provoking memoir that offers a unique perspective from someone who navigates both the personal and professional aspects of being a well-adjusted sociopath. If you're curious about the inner workings of a mind that operates differently from the norm, this book is a compelling read.⁠
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Thanks to @NetGalley and @PanMacmillan for this e-ARC! ⁠