This brief explores the research on psychopaths in various settings and in everyday life. Psychopaths are often predatory by nature but may appear normal to laypersons. Individuals working in health professions, forensic occupations, education and corporate environments are likely to encounter a person with psychopathic traits at some point in their respective careers; this brief highlights the value of being able to identify a person with psychopathic traits, to understand the implications, and to navigate any interactions.

With recommendations for assessment and for guiding future interactions, this brief will be beneficial to mental health professionals, practitioners and researchers in psychology, forensic occupations, corrections, education, healthcare, and professionals in corporate environments.