A recent workshop at our center explored the complex psychology of harassment, diving into the mind of the perpetrator. The question that lingered was: how can someone inflict such harm on another and walk away seemingly unfazed, even triumphant?
Seeking answers from psychiatry experts, we discovered the dark truth behind many harassers’ facades. Often, they harbor a “psychopathic” personality, characterized by emotional detachment, impulsivity, and a lack of remorse. These individuals act on fleeting desires without considering the consequences, leaving them devoid of guilt and even capable of feeling pride after their transgressions.
This pattern of impulsive cruelty is a hallmark of the psychopathic personality. Someone who commits sexual harassment once is statistically likely to repeat it, making their claims of “first offenses” highly dubious.
Ultimately, understanding the psychology of the harasser doesn’t excuse their actions, but it sheds light on the twisted mechanisms that drive them. This knowledge can empower survivors to seek support, confront perpetrators, and advocate for change.