Why Do I Lack Empathy?

Do you fail to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors?

Do you show deceitfulness, as indicated by repeated lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure?

Are you impulsive or do you fail to plan ahead?

Do you experience irritability and aggressiveness?

Do you experience a reckless disregard for safety of self or others?

Are you consistently irresponsible?

Do you experience a lack of remorse?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that your lack of empathy is related to a serious mental health problem. Lack of empathy is often associated with mental disorders, such as anti-social personality disorder or narcissistic personality disorder. But there are many other reasons why someone doesn’t show empathy in the way you expect him to. Some people may be easily overwhelmed and therefore find it hard to show empathy. Others may be dealing with a trauma, and to protect themselves they may show no or limited emotions.

While it’s unlikely that you have a significant problem with lacking empathy, you are showing some signs related to it. It may be useful to discuss your symptoms with your doctor. Lacking empathy can be a sign of an antisocial personality disorder, in which someone shows completely no regard for the feelings and rights of other people. Besides, also schizophrenic people or people with bipolar- and narcissistic personality disorder may lack empathy. On the other hand, there are reasons for people without mental disorder to show a lack of empathy. Some people just naturally don’t have a strong emotional response, others may feel overwhelmed and can’t seem to find the right reaction to show they care.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have serious problems with showing no regard for other people’s feelings and rights, and who does not seem to distinguish right from wrong. You may be dealing with an anti-social personality disorder. It’s important to take this seriously, the disorder may cause other complications such as spouse abuse, substance abuse and eventually ending up in jail. To be sure about your condition, a doctor’s appointment is required. He may conclude that you will benefit from treatment. Treatment usually consists of psychotherapy, anger- and violence management, and medication. A support group may also be helpful.