Frequent Swearing and Negative Emotional Expressions as Warning Signs
Repetitive Use of Obsessive and Self-Centered Language
Rarely Using Words Like "We" or "Each Other"
A recent study has found that it is possible to infer certain personality traits based solely on the words someone uses in a message chat window. In particular, the analysis suggests that people who repeatedly use self-centered and obsessive language, while rarely employing communal expressions such as "we," may have psychopathic tendencies. On December 18 (local time), Charlotte Entwistle, a researcher in the Department of Psychology at the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom, wrote in a contribution to the nonprofit academic outlet The Conversation, "The everyday words people choose quietly but clearly reveal their mindset, emotional state, and the way they relate to others."
A study found that people with psychopathic tendencies often use phrases like "I need this," "I must do it," and "I am right" in message chats, while rarely using words that indicate relationships and solidarity such as "we," "together," and "each other." Photo by Getty Images Bank
Researcher Entwistle explained, "From short text messages to lengthy emails, private conversations with friends, and online comments, language patterns accumulate an individual's psychological characteristics." She added, "When hostility, extreme negativity, and emotional or cognitive rigidity repeatedly appear, these may be early signs of 'dark traits' such as psychopathy or narcissism."
According to the research results, language habits that frequently use swear words or repeatedly express negative emotions such as "angry," "crazy," and "dislike" are likely to be associated with impulsivity and low empathy. In particular, if such expressions are used excessively even in trivial situations, it warrants caution. Another key indicator is the use of self-centered and obsessive expressions. Frequently using phrases like "I need this," "I must do it," and "I am right," while rarely using words that indicate relationships and solidarity such as "we," "together," and "each other," may signal a lack of empathy or a hidden desire for dominance.
Linguistic Characteristics Revealed in Serial Killers' Letters
Researcher Entwistle cited the letters of Austrian serial killer Jack Unterweger as a real-world example. His writings were overwhelmingly dominated by self-centered expressions focused on "I," and his emotional expressions were excessively dry and calculated. The letters of American serial killer Dennis Rader (the BTK Killer) also stood out for exaggerated, cold, and domineering language.
According to the research results, language habits that frequently use swear words or repeatedly express negative emotions such as "angry," "crazy," and "dislike" are likely to be associated with impulsivity and low empathy. Pixabay
Researcher Entwistle noted, "There is no need to analyze every single word someone says, but language patterns that consistently make you uncomfortable can serve as important signals to protect yourself." She explained, "It is highly likely that these language patterns were already formed before any crime occurred." However, experts emphasize that psychopathic tendencies do not necessarily lead directly to criminal behavior. While psychopathy is characterized by a lack of empathy, absence of guilt, impulsivity, and superficial charm, some individuals with these traits excel in fields such as business, politics, and finance, and lead successful social lives.
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