Is the Prime Minister of Canada a Sociopath?

Is Stephen Harper a sociopath? Let's put him to the test and then you can form your own conclusion with the test results. Let me know what score you came up with and let's compare notes.

Sociopathy is a complex personality disorder. Sociopaths exhibit a wide variety of maladaptive behavior which makesthe condition difficult to diagnose. Sociopathy is not one trait; it is a syndrome—a cluster of related symptoms.


The following questionnaire is based on research and experiences of socialised sociopaths. For each trait, decide if it applies to the person you suspect may be a socialised sociopath, fully (2 points), partially (1 point) or not at all (0 points).

1) Do they have problems sustaining stable relationships, personally and in business?

2) Do they frequently manipulate others to achieve selfish goals, with no consideration of the effects on those manipulated?

3) Are they cavalier about the truth, and capable of telling lies to your face?

4) Do they have an air of self-importance, regardless of their true standing in society?

5) Have they no apparent sense of remorse, shame or guilt?

6) Is their charm superficial, and capable of being switched on to suit immediate ends?

7) Are they easily bored and demand constant stimulation?

8) Are their displays of human emotion unconvincing?

9) Do they enjoy taking risks, and acting on reckless impulse?

10) Are they quick to blame others for their mistakes?

11) As teenagers, did they resent authority, play truant and/or steal?

12) Do they have no qualms about sponging off others?

13) Are they quick to lose their temper?

14) Are they sexually promiscuous?

15) Do they have a belligerent, bullying manner?

16) Are they unrealistic about their long-term aims?

17) Do they lack any ability to empathise with others?

18) Would you regard them as essentially irresponsible?

A score of 25 or above suggests strong psychopathic tendencies. This does not mean the person is a potential mass-murderer: socialised psychopaths are not mad, nor do they have to resort to violence. Even so, a close professional or emotional relationship with a socialised psychopath is likely to prove a damaging experience.