From Dexter to Dahmer: Layperson Perceptions, Beliefs, and Attitudes about Psychopathy

Laypeople often lack an understanding of psychopathy, and yet are frequently asked to take it into account in legal contexts. We examined laypeople’s knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes about psychopathy. Although broad understanding of the disorder was good, this was undercut by an overreliance on salacious media representations to inform opinions.