Part 5/10:
The Role of the Amygdala
In psychopathic individuals, the amygdala often develops atypically, being smaller and less reactive to threats from an early age. Since the amygdala coordinates crucial fear responses—like physiological changes, startle reflexes, and behavioral reactions—its underdevelopment impairs an individual’s ability to experience fear and recognize it in others.
When shown emotional facial expressions, neurotypical individuals recognize fear with about 60-70% accuracy. In contrast, individuals with psychopathic traits often struggle significantly with this recognition, sometimes nearly incapable of perceiving fear in others. This deficit hampers their ability to simulate or empathize with others' emotional states, crucial for moral and social functioning.