It's important to note that "sociopath" is not a clinical term used in modern psychology. The correct term is "antisocial personality disorder" (ASPD). People with ASPD have difficulty empathizing with others, may disregard social norms and rules, and often exhibit manipulative and deceitful behavior. However, it's essential to avoid making broad assumptions about individuals based on a diagnosis or label.
That said, how someone reacts when you move on can vary greatly depending on their personality, emotional maturity, and the nature of your relationship. People with ASPD may have difficulty forming deep emotional connections, so their reaction might not be the same as someone without this disorder. Here are some potential ways an individual with ASPD traits might react when you move on:
Indifference or Lack of Emotional Response: Individuals with ASPD may be less emotionally invested in relationships, so they might not feel the same intensity of emotions like jealousy or sadness when you move on.
Manipulation or Exploitation: If the person perceives that you moving on might threaten their interests or goals, they might attempt to manipulate or exploit the situation to their advantage. They may try to maintain control over you or use tactics to bring you back into their life.
Anger or Retaliation: In some cases, a person with ASPD may react with anger or retaliate if they feel rejected or humiliated by your decision to move on. This could manifest in various ways, including verbal attacks, spreading rumors, or trying to sabotage your new relationships.
Feigned Emotions or "Hoovering": Some individuals with ASPD may pretend to have emotions they don't genuinely feel to draw you back into their life. This tactic is sometimes referred to as "hoovering," named after the vacuum cleaner brand, as it attempts to suck the other person back in.
Moving on Quickly: Since people with ASPD may have difficulty forming lasting emotional connections, they might move on quickly themselves or not place much significance on the end of the relationship.
It's essential to remember that reactions to moving on are not solely determined by a diagnosis or personality trait. Many other factors, such as past experiences, emotional resilience, and coping mechanisms, can influence an individual's response to a breakup or the end of a relationship. If you're dealing with a challenging situation involving someone who shows signs of antisocial personality traits, it's crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being. Seek support from friends, family, or professional resources if needed.