Research into psychopathic behavior reveals a troubling trend: age does not inherently curb antisocial tendencies. A comprehensive study conducted in New Zealand delved into the lives of people closely connected to individuals with psychopathic traits, including partners, family members, and friends who themselves exhibited such traits. The aim was to understand how these patterns endure over time and whether aging brings any real change in behavior.
In this examination, more than twelve hundred informants were interviewed to gather a broad picture of how psychopathy manifests in daily interactions and relationships. The researchers sought to discern whether the widely held belief that antisocial behavior fades as someone grows older holds true, or if the opposite is true for those with persistent trait patterns.
Co-author Martin Sellbom described the core finding in clear terms. He noted that contrary to the assumption that individuals who violate social norms gradually withdraw from their anti-social lifestyle, the study found these traits can persist into the mid and late adulthood years. Some participants reported that risk factors and manipulative behaviors not only persisted but intensified with age, making deceit and social manipulation more pronounced as time passed.
A substantial portion of the study’s data came from reports about the behavior of individuals with psychopathic features. Of those who were close to a person with such traits, a striking majority observed ongoing manipulation. A large share also reported antisocial actions and patterns of psychological abuse, while many described episodes that involved financial harm and even threats. In several cases, respondents described violent conduct or threats that escalated over time, painting a picture of enduring risk rather than improvement with age.
One narrative shared by a participant recounted how an ex-spouse became more violent as years progressed. The description highlighted lying, cheating, stealing, and a general disregard for the consequences of harmful actions. A second story described a mother whose behavior did not soften with age; instead, patterns of abuse, deception, and public defamation persisted, sometimes accompanied by intimidation or physical confrontation when strength allowed it. These testimonies illustrate how destructive dynamics can remain stable or grow more entrenched in later life.
Across the dataset, many individuals reported enduring consequences resulting from these relationships. Financial losses, debt accumulation, and tangible injuries formed a troubling common thread. In a subset of cases, the harms extended to life-threatening scenarios, underscoring the real-world stakes that accompany persistent psychopathic behavior in long-term relationships or social circles.
The researchers caution that the findings challenge the belief that psychopathic behavior naturally stabilizes or diminishes with age. Instead, they emphasize that the absence of natural maturation in these traits should influence how people assess risk and decide who to trust in personal and professional ties. The study implies that aging alone should not be mistaken for an opportunity to reform someone with a history of antisocial conduct.
Overall, the work suggests that people who live or work with someone displaying psychopathic features should approach long-term decisions with heightened caution. The potential for ongoing manipulation, exploitation, or violence remains a critical factor for consideration. This perspective is essential for individuals evaluating life choices, relationship boundaries, and the broader implications of maintaining or severing connections with someone known to exhibit persistent antisocial behavior.