Does sociopathy originate in autism

Answer 1

There is no evidence that supports this theory; however, many famously considered sociopaths (including Jeffery Dahmer and Adolf Hitler), are by some considered autistic. Autism is generally reserved for people with an incapacity for social function who are nonviolent. Similarly, sociopathy is generally reserved for that of violent people. The psychological correlation could remain unrecognized due to fear of "popular opinion" contorting the terms to be synonymous.

If sociopathy were linked to autism, it would necessitate being "high functioning" like Asperger's, due to many sociopaths remaining "under the radar" until being outed by some lapse in social behavior.

Also, sociopaths are often considered having no interests in sympathy, but still try to gain influence or power over others (through opportunism and violent crimes).