How to tell if you're dating a sociopath

So you think that the person your dating might be "the one." But you have your doubts. It seems as though everything has happened a lot faster than usual. And you seem to be doing things for this person that you don't normally do. And they do seem to be asking more of you than the others.But there are promises of marriage and a life of happiness ever after and they do make you feel good about yourself. Are they for real? Or are they about to take you to the cleaners? Read more to find out.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• gift of discernment
• ability to listen to your mind and not your heart
• acceptance
• a large friend
• stiff upper lip
• kleenex

1. Step One: Recognize the story. With most sociopaths, who by definition have the inability to love others, and quite frankly at a funeral, would have to look into the face of someone else in order to know how to "act" there is always some sad story in which they are the victim - through no fault of their own. Maybe their parents died leaving them penniless, or they were abused, or their house burnt down, or their spouse turned gay...and the list goes on and on and on. This story will always be the same with sociopaths, only the actor/actress will change.
2. Spot the false humility. A true sociopath is almost always appearing humble. They will lift you up and seemingly put themselves in the background. You are the greatest and they a mere shadow in in your majesty. Beware of this. These types prey on people who've recently come through a break-up or some other horrible dilemma. These bottom feeders go for those who are down on their luck.
3. Flattery. Beware of the gilding of the lillie. They are the masters of charm. They will tell you the most unbelievable things about yourself, how pretty you are, how smart, how knowledgeable. They will give you the feeling that you are on top of the world while all the time reaching down into your pocketbook or maybe your sphere of influence, or your friends or family. They will stop at nothing to get what they want, it's the way that they do it, putting their "confidence" in you that makes it so easy for them.
4. History. Most sociopaths are unable to follow any life plan. Therefore they have a very checkered past. Ask them about family or friends, and chances are they have none. If they broke up with someone before they "found" you, ask them who it was, do a little investigating. But beware, they often assume false identities so it's careful to watch for the other "tells" I've given you in the few steps above.
5. Items/things/money missing. This is sure to happen. I had a mate steal my cds. They said that I misplaced them. They were selling them!!! I found out too late. Things will go missing. Credit cards may disappear for a day or two, or you may think you have misplaced your checkbook. Check it carefully, as you may find a check or two missing in the numbers. If this happens immediately call the bank and stop payment on the check or close the account.
6. Beware of any false promises, such as cruises, or business investments, or loaning money for a sick "relative" these are all ploys. The sociopath gets off on having power over others. They thrive on it. The minute you figure them out and call them out on it, they will fly. In fact, they know the signs that you're discovering them, and are probably working late at the office, or going to A.A. meetings, or any of the other excuses - in order to scope out your replacement.

Tips & Warnings

• Beware of the sociopath and be wary, but once you discover them, don't be quick to let them know it. Try to get your stuff/money/dignity back before they find out. Go along with the game, it is possible to out fox the fox.
• Never divulge financial information to anyone, even if they promise you the world. If you do get as far as matrimony, always ALWAYS ALWAYS keep a little account or money or shoebox of cash on the side, just in case you need a way out.
• Don't let them meet too many of your friends right away. Until you know your partner for real, you don't want them to meet your friends because these may be their next targets for a con, especially if you dump them. They will turn your friends against you and take what they can.
• You can not convert them. You may believe you can, but these leopards never change their spots.
• They can be dangerous and have even been known to kill. If you get into a bind, seek legal advice or protection. If you feel they are involved in some kind of a scam, call the FBI or CIA and get them involved. They can give you the aid you need and you may help to put these criminals behind bars.
• Think with your Head sweetie and NOT with your heart. You may feel that you are deeply in love with this person. You may even believe that they love you back, but listen LISTEN LISTEN!!!! Sociopaths are incapable of love. The only treatment (with very little success rate) is group therapy with other sociopaths who can call them out on their b.s. They will never love you. And once you find them out, they will bolt and leave you in pieces. It is better to get out while you can, but don't beat yourself up about it, you are not the only victim, and probably, you won't be their last.