Skripsi Bagus Pambudi Full Text

Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 189

SOCIOPATHIC TENDENCIES AS REFLECTED BY PATRICK BATEMAN

AS THE MAIN CHARACTER IN AMERICAN PSYCHO

THESIS

Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements


for the Degree of Sarjana Humaniora

Written by:

BAGUS PAMBUDI WIBOWO

SRN. 163211047

ENGLISH LETTERS STUDY PROGRAM


FACULTY CULTURES AND LANGUAGES
UIN RADEN MAS SAID SURAKARTA
2022

i
ADVISORS SHEET

Subject : Bagus Pambudi Wibowo


SRN : 16.32.1.1047
To:
The Dean of
Faculty of Culture and Languages
UIN Raden Mas Said Surakarta
In Surakarta
Assalamu’alaikum Wr. Wb
After reading thoroughly and giving necessary, advice, herewith, as the
advisors, we state that the thesis of:
Name : Bagus Pambudi Wibowo
SRN : 163211047
Title : SOCIOPATHIC TENDENCIES AS REFLECTED BY PATRICK
BATEMAN AS THE MAIN CHARACTER IN AMERICAN PSYCHO
Has already fulfilled the requirements to be presented before The Board of Examiner
(Munaqosyah) to attain the degree of Sarjana Humaniora in English Letters.
Thank you for the attention.
Wassalamu’alaikum Wr. Wb
Sukoharjo, 12 April 2023
Advisors

Dr. Hj. Lilik Untari, S.Pd., M.Hum.


NIP. 19751005 199803 2 002

ii
RATIFICATION

This is to certify the Sarjana Thesis entitled Sociopathic Thendencies as


Reflected by Patrick Bateman as the Main Character in American Psycho by Bagus
Pambudi Wibowo has been approved by the Board of Thesis Examiner as requirement
for the degree of Sarjana in English Letters.

Chairman : Hidayatul Nurjanah, M.A. (…………………………….)

NIP. 19850928 201903 2 012

Secretary : Dr. Hj. Lilik Untari, S.Pd., M.Hum. (…………………………….)

NIP. 19751005 199803 2 002

Main Examiner : Nestiani Hutami, M.A. (…………………………….)

iii
DEDICATION

This thesis is dedicated to:


1. My beloved parents
2. My beloved family
3. English Letters 2016
4. English Letters Department
5. My Almamater UIN Raden Mas Said Surakarta

iv
MOTTO

"A great person is one who is able to hide his troubles, so that other people think that
he is always happy"

(Imam Syafi’i)

“Live your life, regret, and nothing”

(Bagus Pam)

v
PRONOUNCEMENT

Name : Bagus Pambudi Wibowo

SRN : 163211047

Study Program : English Letters

Faculty : Faculty of Cultures and Language

I hereby sincerely state that the thesis entitled “Sociopathic Tendencies as


Reflected by Patrick Bateman as the Main Character in American Psycho” is my real
masterpiece. The things out of my masterpiece in this thesis are signed by citation and
referred bibliography.
If later proven that my thesis has discrepancies, I am willing to take the academic
sanctions in the form of repealing my thesis and academic degree.

Sukoharjo, April 12th 2023

Stated by,

Bagus Pambudi Wibowo

SRN: 163211047

vi
ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Alhamdulillah, all praises to Allah, the single power, the lord of the universe,
master of the judgment, God Almighty, for all blessing and mercies so the researcher
was able to finish this thesis entitled “Sociopathic Tendencies as Reflected by Patrick
Bateman as the Main Character in American Psycho”. Peace be upon Prophet
Muhammad saw, the great leader and good inspiration of world revolution.

The researcher is sure that his thesis would not be completed without the helps,
support and suggestion from several sides. Thus, the researcher would like to express
his deepest thanks to all of those who had helped, supported and suggested his during
the process of writing this thesis. This goes to:

1. Prof. Dr. H. Mudhofir, S.Ag.,M.Pd. the head of Raden Mas Said State Islamic
University of Surakarta.
2. Prof. Dr. Toto Suharto, S.Ag., M.Ag. as the dean of Faculty of Cultures and
Language.
3. Nur Asiyah, S.S., M.A. as the head of English Letter Department
4. Dr. Hj. Lilik Untari, S.Pd., M.Hum. as the consultant for his guidance,
precious advices, corrections and help to revise the mistake during the
entire process of writing this thesis; and for the sincere and motivation
for the researcher.
5. Yustin Sartika, M.A. as the validator and as the kind lecturer who always
push the researcher to the limit, May Allah SWT gives you and your
family heath and bless.
6. All lectures of English Letters, thanks for support, guidance, advice, and share
knowledge for me.
7. For my beloved father Mr. Sukatno who passed away during Covid-19 and
my beloved mother Mrs. Suparmi, Thank a lot for everything, for supporting,

vii
praying for me every time and everywhere. May Alloh SWT removes all your
worries, fears, pain, and grant you to Jannah.
8. For me thank you very much, I resisted the laziness, I gave this to my effort.
This is your struggle, keep spirit to facing the next life.
9. For TENTACLE as the other family who always put the love and
experiences
10. My beloved Best friends Jeri, Gana, Bening, Lukman, Rizky, Ridwan,
Hasyim, Ririn, Ardel, Rahma, Resita thank you for accompanying me and
supporting me every time and everywhere.

The researcher realizes that this thesis is still far from being perfect. The
researcher hopes that this thesis is useful for the researcher in particular and the reader
in general.

Surakarta, 12 April 2023

The researcher

Bagus Pambudi Wibowo

viii
TABLE OF CONTENT

TITLE ................................................................................................................................. i
ADVISORS SHEET .................................................................................................ii
RATIFICATION .......................................................................................................iii
DEDICATION ..........................................................................................................iv
MOTTO ....................................................................................................................v
PRONUNCEMENT ..................................................................................................vi
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ........................................................................................vii
TABLE OF CONTENT ............................................................................................ix
ABSTRACT ..............................................................................................................xi

CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION ........................................................................1

A. Background of the Study ...........................................................................1


B. Limitation of the study .............................................................................7
C. Formulation of the Problems ....................................................................7
D. Objectives of the Study .............................................................................7
E. Benefits of the Study .................................................................................7
F. Definition of the Key terms .......................................................................8

CHAPTER II: LITERATURE REVIEW ...........................................................11

A. Theoritical Background ............................................................................11


1. Sociopath ............................................................................................11
2. 20 Items PCL-R .................................................................................13
B. Previous Studies .......................................................................................22

CHAPTER III: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ..............................................25

A. Research Design .......................................................................................25


B. Data and Data Sources .............................................................................25
C. Research Instruments ...............................................................................26

ix
D. Data Collection Techniques .....................................................................27
E. Data Validation Techniques ....................................................................33
F. Data Analysis Techniques ........................................................................33

CHAPTER IV: RESEARCH FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS ......................37

A. Research Findings ....................................................................................37


B. Discussion ...................................................................................... ........100

CHAPTER V: CONCLUSIONS AND SUGGESTIONS ........................ ........107

A. Conclussion ................................................................................... ........107


B. Implication .................................................................................... ........109
C. Suggestion ..................................................................................... ........109

BIBLIOGRAPY ....................................................................................... ........111

APPENDICES ......................................................................................... ........115

x
ABSTRACT

Bagus Pambudi Wibowo. 2023. Sociopathic Tendencies as Reflected by Patrick


Bateman as the Main Character in American Psycho. English Literature Study
Program, Faculty of Culture and Languages.
Advisor: Dr. Hj. Lilik Untari, S.Pd. M.Hum.
Keywords: Sociopath, Hare’s PCL-R, American Psycho
One of the most favourite genres in literature is psychological fiction.
Psychological fiction as a genre that focuses on the interior life of characters, exploring
their motives, emotions, and inner conflicts that examines the unconscious mind and
the complexities of human behavior. American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis is a classic
example of psychological fiction. The novel is a disturbing exploration of the mind of
a wealthy and successful young man named Patrick Bateman, who works in finance in
New York City during the 1980s.
This study uses a qualitative descriptive method because it attempts to
reveal the types of sociopathic tendencies as reflected by Patrick Bateman as the main
character in American Psycho. In this study, the researcher analyzes sociopathic
tendencies as reflected by Patrick Bateman based on Hare's Psychopathy Checklist-
Revised (PCL-R) theory.
The findings are presented in the form of a narrative or textual description.
The data of this research were words, phrases, clauses, and sentences, considered to
reflect the characters of the story. The data were taken from the American Psycho novel
by Bret Easton Ellis. The researcher analyzes Patrick Bateman's sociopathic tendencies
and compare it with the items of a sociopathic traits listed in Hare's theory.
Derived from the analysis, the researcher has discovered 72 data that
contain of sociopathic traits as reflected of Patrick Bateman, and unveils three types of
sociopathic tendencies, there are (1) Factor 1: Narcissistic, this type occurs when
Patrick Bateman’s Garndiose of Self-worth as the core aspect of this factor, which
describe how he sees himself as superior to others. (2) Factor 2: Antisocial, this type
occurs when when Patrick Bateman's impulsivity as the core aspect of this factor often
leads him to act without thinking, which can result in disastrous consequences for those
around him. (3) Non-Related Factor: Impersonal Sexual behavior and Unstable of
Relationship, this type occurs when Patrick Bateman's unstable relationships are
closely tied to his sexual behavior, in which he is unable to maintain meaningful
relationships with women.

xi
CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

A. Background of The Study

In Literature, writing is art. An art to compose words where the words are arranged

into a sentence that it has a meaning or purpose of the author. Writing is the basic of

literature work, no matter what is the literature work, like film, novel, poem and etc.

All of them are created by writing. Especially in poem or novel, even the first form of

film before being watched by people is in the form of writing. According to Cuddon

(2013) argues that literature is a broad term that usually refers to works of major genres

such as: epics, dramas, novels, short stories, even lyrics.

One of the most popular forms of literature is novel. Novel is a long fictional

narrative written in prose, which has developed from its initial form, novella and other

early narrative forms (Bonn, 2010). A novel based on plot and theme with a focus on

character development and action. Therefore, an action and event in a novel usually

relates to real human life, character development itself in the novels usually describe

the character or human nature in real life, whether it's love, experience, ambition,

sadness, happiness, and other can be presented in the novel.

Psychological fiction is one of the most favourite genre in literature. Porter

Abbott (2008) describes psychological fiction as a genre that focuses on the interior

life of characters, exploring their motives, emotions, and inner conflicts. He also states

that psychological fiction often involves a "depth psychology" approach that examines

1
the unconscious mind and the complexities of human behavior. David Lodge, in his

book The Art of Fiction (1992) argues that psychological fiction is characterized by its

focus on the inner lives of characters, and the use of techniques such as free indirect

discourse and stream-of-consciousness narration to represent their thoughts and

emotions. According to Lodge, psychological fiction is a genre that requires a high

level of empathy and requires a deep understanding of human psychology and

behaviour.

American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis is a classic example of psychological

fiction. The novel is a disturbing exploration of the mind of a wealthy and successful

young man named Patrick Bateman, who works in finance in New York City during

the 1980s. This novel has received a lot of criticism, even before its official release.

This novel received protests and caused much debate when it was released which

caused a great stir over the publication of the book. David Schmid (2015) examines

how Bateman's character embodies the psychopathic tendencies that can be produced

by capitalism, including a lack of empathy and a focus on individual success at the

expense of others. Schmid also discusses how the novel uses violence as a means of

critique, exposing the dark underbelly of capitalist culture and its obsession with power

and status. Despite many opinions about the novel among literary critics, the novel has

changed a lot since then and it is an interesting novel among lay readers, as American

Psycho's fame is still well known due to its highly controversial content.

The novel focuses on Patrick Bateman as the main character. This novel set in

New York City around the end of the 1980s, this novel tells the life of its main

2
protagonist, Patrick Bateman. One of the key themes of the novel is the alienation and

emptiness of modern society. Bateman is wealthy, successful, and attractive, but he is

also deeply unhappy and feels disconnected from the world around him. According to

Jihyun Kim in his article Patrick Bateman: An Embodiment of American Society's

Psychopathy (2017) argues that Bateman's psychopathy is not an individual

abnormality, but a product of the culture that values money, power, and success above

all else.

Patrick Bateman tries to fill this void by indulging in violent and sadistic

behavior, but this only serves to deepen his sense of despair. Bateman spends all his

time and money on a glamorous life such as in high-rated restaurants, always keeping

his body in shape at the gym and getting his face and hair always neat. He also always

pays attention and makes sure that he must wear clothes that designed by famous

fashion designers and with high-brand clothing brands at that time. According to Jihyun

Kim (2017) in his article stated how Bateman's inner world is characterized by a lack

of empathy and an obsession with superficial appearances, mirroring the values of

American society. Kim also draws connections between Bateman's actions and real-

life instances of corporate greed and violence.

Kim explores how the novel depicts instances of corporate greed and violence,

drawing connections between Bateman's actions and real-life examples of similar

behavior. Kim contends that the novel is a critique of capitalist society and its emphasis

on wealth and status, showing how the American dream can become a nightmare of

emptiness and violence. Patrick Bateman is a person who keeps up to date with the

3
latest item in fashion to make him appear prominent, and he owns a new high-end

phone, follows pop artists like Whitney Houston or Genesis, and never misses an

episode of his favorites a talk show on television. In short, the main character is trapped

in a world of fashion trends, high-end product advertisements and pop culture where

everything is for people who have enough money with high status.

In this study the researcher focuses on sociopathic tendencies on the character

of Patrick Bateman who has contained of sociopathic disorders. Although the ending

of this novel is ambiguous, it is not clear whether Bateman really did all these things

or he is just hallucinating, this novel really features scenes of a serial killer. Many

indications show that he is a psycho, such as having problems with emotions, brutality,

torture and mutilation, a lack of empathy, and manipulating others.

The term 'sociopath' is commonly used in our daily lives to describe a person

who lacks empathy, emotions, and conscience. However, in the field of

psychology, sociopathy is a complex and severe personality disorder that can have

a significant impact on an individual's life and the people around them. The term

sociopath has often been used interchangeably with terms psychopathy and

antisocial personality.

Mosby’s Medical, Nursing, & Allied Health Dictionary sixth edition (2002)

defines Antisocial Personality Disorder (APD) as a condition marked by repeated

patterns of behavior that go against common moral and ethical standards, leading

to ongoing conflict with society (p.115). Maramis (1980) explains that an antisocial

person is characterized by their behavior that brought him into conflict with society.

4
The subject has no loyalty to the group or existing social norms, generally egocentric,

do not responsible, impulsive, unable to change themselves, good because of the

experience or punishment he gets. Has a low level of disappointment, so they tend to

blame others for their behavior.

According to the Harvard Mental Health Letter (2000), the terms "sociopath"

and "antisocial personality" refer to the actions and their outcomes of an individual,

whereas the term "psychopath" pertains to the internal experiences of the

individual. Meyer (1994) suggests that sociopathy is generally viewed as a

subgroup of the broader category of antisocial personality disorder. The concept of

sociopathic personality highlights the individual's failure to adhere to societal

expectations and underlines the significance of cultural factors in the development

of deviant behavior.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (2013),

sociopaths are considered a mental disorder, particularly a personality disorder

characterized by antisocial behaviour. Sollid (2016) states that there is a difference

between a sociopath and a psychopath, the main difference being that a sociopath they

are like that due to environmental factors around them.

Having similar tendencies to psychopaths, the term sociopath has a negative

connotation. Peterson (2016) argues that the word "sociopath" can simply be

interpreted as someone who has antisocial tendencies and has no conscience. He also

argues that a sociopath can be dangerous to those around him and others, which can

cause either harm or damage , such as hurting people physically, emotionally, or even

5
financially; manipulating, deceiving people to generate profits for themselves; and

many more.

As defined above, this study considers sociopaths as mental disorders caused

by the influence of the social environment around them, and is a mental disorder that

is different and not as dangerous as psychopaths. Although most researchers often use

the terms psychopath and sociopath interchangeably, there are some researchers who

explicitly analyze the characteristics of a sociopath. One of them is Research conducted

by Dwitya Wirattama Sakti 2018, with the title “Sociopathic Personality Disorder as

Reflected By Rorschach as the Main Character in Watchmen By Zack Snyder”. The

theories that are used in this study are theory of character and characterization, and

sociopathic personality disorder. The approach used in this study is psychological

approach. This study uses library research as the main method of gathering research

data. The primary source of this study is taken from the movie and screenplay. The

secondary sources of this study are taken from relevant books and other documents

from the internet. Based on the analysis, there are two findings. The first finding is

about the description of Rorschach’s characteristics. Rorschach’s characteristics as a

costumed hero are ruthless, self-righteous, loyal and clever. Rorschach is a complex

character because the natures of those characteristics are contradicted with each other.

However, Rorschach are able to manage to make those characteristics as his defining

traits. The second finding is about Rorschach’s sociopathic personality disorder. The

character of Rorschach can be classified as having Sociopathic Personality Disorder as

he exhibits seven traits that fulfill the criteria for this disorder.

6
B. Limitation of The Study

The primary objective of this study is to analyze the sociopathic tendencies of

the main character, Patrick Bateman, in Bret Easton Ellis' novel "American Psycho,"

using Hare's PCL-R theory as the analytical framework. The goal is to identify the

specific type of sociopathic tendencies exhibited by Bateman.

C. Formulation of The Problems

As stated above, the aim of this study is to examine Patrick Bateman's real

character and compare it with the characteristics of a sociopath listed in Hare's theory.

Therefore, the following research question has been formulated:

a. What types of sociopathic tendencies are found from Patrick Bateman in the

novel?

D. Objectives of The Study

In relation to the problem, this study attempts to reach the following objectives:

a. To find out the types of sociopathic tendencies embedded in Patrick Bateman’s

character in the novel.

E. Benefit of The Study

This research has some benefit that can used to study. There are a theoretical

benefit and practical benefit. In the following ways:

1. Theoretical benefit

This study is expected to give some literature knowledge on

Psychological Analysis, especially about sociopath for the students of

7
English Literature. This research is expected can help to understand

sociopath.

2. Critical benefit

For the researcher, this research is intended to develop the

researcher’s understanding of Psychological Analysis, especially about

Sociopathy.

For the reader, this research explains the additional information

for those interested in Sociopathy on characters from literary works and

for the comparison research to the relevant research that uses some or

different approach.

F. Definition of Key Terms

a. Sociopath

Sociopath is an antisocial personality disorder experienced by a person. The

behavior of sociopaths is similar to that of psychopaths. In general, not all

people who have a sociopathic disorder are psychopaths. But all psychopaths

are sociopaths. Dr. Robert D. Hare who has made extensive studies of people

with psychopathic personalities says that sociopaths lie all the time and they do

not see this behavior as a mistake. Their quest is only to serve themselves, and

if it is necessary to lie, deceive, or even kill, they will do it. Sociopaths are

brilliant to change the subject when people catch them in lies, put the

responsibility on people, and deny their involvement or even try to make people

seem crazy.

8
b. Hare’s PCL-R

Robert D. Hare's Psychopathy Checklist Revised (PCL-R) is a standardized tool

for assessing psychopathy. It consists of 20 items that are rated based on the degree

to which an individual exhibits certain characteristics associated with psychopathy.

The PCL-R has been shown to have high reliability and validity, and it is widely

used in research and clinical settings to assess the risk of violent behavior and to

guide treatment decisions. While the PCL-R has been subject to some criticism, it

remains a valuable tool for identifying individuals at high risk for violent behavior

and for guiding interventions aimed at reducing this risk.

c. American Psycho

American Psycho, written by American writer Bret Easton Ellis (born 1964), is

a novel that had been written in the late of 1980s and published in 1991. This novel

set in New York City around the end of the 1980s, the novel focuses on the lives of

Patrick Bateman as the main character that live in Manhattan city. Bateman spends

all of his time securing reservations at the hippest restaurants, keeping fit at the

gym, and keeping his face and hair always superbly groomed, constantly making

sure that he wears clothes by those high fashion designers at the time, also

obsessively keeping up with the latest technological developments in order to own

a new top-tier cordless telephone. Patrick Bateman is also a brutal serial killer,

whose numerous murders, tortures and mutilations of the victim.

9
CHAPTER II

LITERATURE REVIEW

A. Theoretical Background

1. Sociopath

Robert D. Hare, a Canadian psychologist, is known for his extensive

research on sociopathy and psychopathy, and he developed the Psychopathy

Checklist-Revised (PCL-R), a diagnostic tool to identify individuals with this

disorder. Hare's work on these disorders has been influential in the field of

forensic psychology and has helped to understanding of these complex

conditions. According to Hare, Sociopathy is a personality disorder which is

identified by a lack of empathy, indifference towards others' emotions, and a

tendency to act impulsively, often leading to destructive behaviors.

Additionally, sociopaths may exhibit a variety of behaviors that go against

societal norms, such as aggression, impulsiveness, and a lack of regret or

shame for their actions.

Hare notes that sociopathy is a controversial and somewhat outdated

term that has been replaced by the diagnosis of Antisocial Personality

Disorder (ASPD) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental

Disorders (DSM-5). However, he maintains that the term sociopathy is still

useful in describing a specific subset of individuals with ASPD who display

particularly severe symptoms. Hare's definition of sociopathy is based on his

extensive research into the behaviors and traits of individuals with this

disorder. In his book "Without Conscience: The Disturbing World of the

Psychopaths Among Us" Hare writes that sociopaths are individuals with this

10
condition demonstrate an array of interpersonal, affective, and behavioral

traits that surpass the typical range of human experience.

Dr. Robert D. Hare who has made extensive studies of people with

sociopathic and psychopathic personalities, he creates tool which name is

Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (Hare’s PCL-R) to assess the

presence and extent of the personality trait psychopathy and sociopathy in

individualsl. Dr. Robert D. Hare (1993) stated that sociopaths are the

product of one’s developmental environment. Dr. Robert D. Hare also

notes that sociopaths are the result of an interaction between genetic and

environmental factors, whereas sociopath tends toward the

environmental. He also says that sociopaths lie all the time and they do

not see this behavior as a mistake. Their quest is only to serve themselves,

and if it is necessary to lie, deceive, or even kill, they will do it. Sociopaths

are brilliant to change the subject when people catch them in lies, put the

responsibility on people, and deny their involvement or even try to make

people seem crazy. They may seem to be laughing or crying but they are

present without any depth of emotion. Sociopaths are more spontaneous

and disorganized to act in committing crimes. Thus, they are easier to

catch but they are more likely to leave a lot of evidence in their violent

outbursts.

According to Dr. Robert D. Hare (1993), stated sociopaths are social

predators who lure, manipulate, and ruthlessly hijack their path through life,

leaving a vast trail of heartbreak, shattered hopes, and empty wallets.

Completely lacking in conscience and feelings towards others, they selfishly

11
take what they want and do as they please, violating social norms and

expectations without the slightest guilt or regret. This means that sociopathy

is a deviant act and has no conscience. Sociopaths have their own symptoms

besides killing, killing does not mean making a person sociopath or

psychopath, but killing is the criminal act of the person.

2. 20 Items Hare’s PCL-R

The PCL-R is a 20-item symptom construct rating scale. Each of items

in the PCL-R is scored on three-point scale according to specific criteria

through file information. Zero score indicates that the items do not match

with the diagnosed person’s attitudes, then a score of one indicates that the

items slightly match with the patient’s attitudes, and a score of two indicates

that item perfectly fit with the diagnosed person’s attitudes.

Dr. Robert D. Hare stated that the specific personality characteristics

he has identified encompass two primary and correlated factors. PCL-R

Factor 1 labelled the core personality traits characteristic of this syndrome,

associated with extraversion and positive affect, may even be beneficial for

the psychopath or sociopath such as lack of affect, guilt, superficiality,

habitual lying, remorse and empathy. PCL-R Factor 2 includes chronically

unstable, antisocial and socially deviant lifestyle that associated with reactive

anger, criminality, and impulsive violence.

There are 20-items of Hare’s Psychopathy Checklist Revised (PCL-R)

which is divided into three categories, there are:

1. PCL-R Factor 1

Factor 1 of the PCL-R consists of 8 items that are related to the

12
interpersonal and affective traits both of sociopathy and psychopathy.

These traits are considered to be the core of sociopathy and are often

referred to as the "emotional" or "primary" traits. The 8 items that make

up Factor 1 are:

a. Gilbness/superficial charm

A tendency to be smooth, engaging, and persuasive in

interpersonal interactions, often with the intention of

manipulating or exploiting others for personal gain. Individuals

with high levels of glibness or superficial charm are skilled at

putting others at ease, making positive first impressions, and

using their charm to get what they want. They can come across

as very likable, charismatic, and confident, but this charm is

often a facade that masks a deeper lack of empathy, remorse, or

concern for others.

b. Grandiose of self-worth

The condition to feel superior among others, or to see others

as inferior. They have a narcissistic and greatly elevated view

of their self-esteem and importance, egocentricity and a truly

astounding sense of entitlement, and see themselves as the

center of the universe, as superior beings justified in living

according to their own rule. They have a sense of entitlement to

whatever they want by their own rules. They have a high level

of ego for their own sake.

c. Pathological lying

13
It refers to a persistent pattern of lying or deception that is

often seen as unnecessary or unjustified. Individuals with

pathological lying tendencies may fabricate stories or

exaggerate their accomplishments, often with the intention of

gaining attention, admiration, or sympathy from others. They

may also lie to avoid punishment, responsibility, or

consequences for their actions. In some cases, they may believe

their own lies or be unaware of the extent to which they are

deceiving others.

d. Manipulation for personal gain

It refers to a tendency to use others for personal advantage,

often through deceptive or exploitative means. Individuals with

manipulation tendencies may be skilled at persuading,

convincing, or coercing others to do their bidding, often without

regard for the consequences or the impact on others. They may

also use charm, flattery, or other tactics to gain trust and

manipulate those around them for their own benefit.

e. Lack of remorse

It refers to a lack of concern or guilt for harm or wrongdoing

inflicted on others, often accompanied by a failure to take

responsibility for one's actions or show empathy for the

suffering of others. Individuals with a lack of remorse may

engage in harmful or even violent behavior without

experiencing feelings of guilt or remorse. They may minimize

14
the harm they have caused or blame others for their actions, and

may be more concerned with avoiding punishment or negative

consequences than with the impact of their behavior on others.

f. Shallow affect

A condition when a person has little or no emotions.

Sociopaths seem to suffer from a kind of emotional poverty that

limits the reach and depth of their feelings. Sociopaths are seen

often have superficial emotions. They sometimes seem cold and

unemotional, and sometimes they tend to show superficial and

dramatic feelings.

Individuals with shallow affect may appear to be indifferent,

unemotional, or even cold in their interactions with others, and

may have difficulty expressing or recognizing emotions in

themselves or others. They may also be prone to boredom or a

lack of interest in activities that others find engaging or

stimulating.

g. Callousness/lack of empathy

It refers to a lack of concern for the feelings, needs, or

suffering of others, often accompanied by a failure to recognize

or understand the impact of one's behavior on others.

Individuals with callousness/lack of empathy may show little

interest or concern for others, and may be dismissive or even

contemptuous of others' emotions or experiences. They may be

15
prone to manipulative or exploitative behavior, and may view

others as objects to be used for their own benefit.

h. Failure to accept responsibility

It refers to a tendency to blame others or external

circumstances for one's own behavior, and to avoid taking

responsibility for one's actions or their consequences.

Individuals with a failure to accept responsibility may deny or

minimize their role in negative outcomes, and may be quick to

point fingers or make excuses for their behavior. They may also

be prone to deflecting criticism or blame onto others, rather than

acknowledging their own mistakes or shortcomings.

2. PCL-R factor 2

Factor 2 of the Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R)

consists of 10 items that are related to the behavioral and antisocial

lifestyle characteristics of both sociopathy and psychopathy. These

traits are often referred to as the "behavioral" or "secondary" traits and

are distinct from the core personality traits associated with Factor 1. The

10 items that make up Factor 2 are:

a. Stimulation seeking / sensation seeking

It refers to a tendency to seek out novel, exciting, and

potentially risky experiences, often to a degree that is excessive

or dangerous. Individuals with stimulation seeking/sensation

seeking tendencies may engage in activities such as drug use,

reckless driving, gambling, or extreme sports, in order to

16
experience a high or a rush of excitement. They may have a low

threshold for boredom and may become easily disinterested in

routine or mundane activities.

b. Parasitic orientation

A tendency to exploit others for personal gain, without any

regard for their well-being or interests. Individuals with

parasitic orientation may engage in behaviors such as mooching

off others, living off of the financial support of others, or

engaging in scams or frauds in order to obtain resources or

money without putting in any effort. They may manipulate or

deceive others in order to achieve their goals, and may lack any

feelings of guilt or remorse for their actions.

c. Lack of Goals

It refers to a lack of long-term goals or aspirations, as well

as a lack of motivation to achieve anything beyond immediate

gratification. Individuals with a lack of goals may not have a

clear sense of what they want to achieve in life, and may be

content to drift through life without any direction or purpose.

They may be impulsive and have difficulty delaying

gratification, leading them to engage in behaviors that provide

immediate pleasure or excitement but have no long-term

benefits.

d. Impulsivity

A tendency to act on the spur of the moment without

17
considering the potential consequences of one's actions.

Individuals with impulsivity may have difficulty controlling

their behavior, and may act in ways that are reckless or

dangerous. Sociopaths are unlikely to spend a lot of time

weighing the pros and cons of an action or considering the

possible consequences. "I do it because I feel that way," is a

common response.

Sociopath doesn’t think of the actions they want to perform.

They do it because they like it. That's what generally happens.

They may have a low tolerance for frustration and may become

easily bored, leading them to seek out new and exciting

experiences that may be risky or impulsive.

e. Irresponsibility

It refers to a lack of responsibility or accountability for one's

actions and behaviors, and a tendency to blame others for

problems or difficulties. Individuals with irresponsibility may

have difficulty keeping commitments or meeting obligations,

and may often engage in behaviors that are irresponsible or

reckless. They may also fail to take responsibility for the

consequences of their actions, instead blaming others or

external circumstances for their problems.

f. Poor behaviour control

A tendency to act impulsively and to engage in behaviors

that are inappropriate, risky, or aggressive. Individuals with

18
poor behavioral control may have difficulty regulating their

emotions, particularly anger and frustration, and may act out in

ways that are impulsive or harmful to others. They may also

struggle with substance abuse or addiction, which can further

impair their ability to control their behavior.

g. Early behavioural problems

It refers to a history of behavioral difficulties and problems

in childhood or adolescence, such as delinquency, truancy, or

conduct disorder. Individuals with early behavioral problems

may have a pattern of engaging in rule-breaking behaviors, and

may have difficulty conforming to social norms and

expectations. They may have a history of aggression or

violence, and may have been in trouble with the law from an

early age.

h. Juvenile delinguency

It refers to a history of engaging in illegal or rule-breaking

behaviors during adolescence, such as vandalism, theft, or drug

use. Individuals with a history of juvenile delinquency may have

difficulty conforming to social norms and expectations, and

may have a pattern of engaging in risky or impulsive behaviors.

They may also have a history of conflict with authority figures,

such as parents, teachers, or law enforcement.

i. Revocation of conditional release

It refers to a history of violating the conditions of a release

19
from custody, such as probation or parole. Individuals with a

history of revocation of conditional release may have difficulty

complying with rules and regulations, and may engage in

impulsive or risky behavior. They may also have a history of

conflict with authority figures, such as probation officers or

parole supervisors. The presence of revocation of conditional

release is considered a strong predictor of later criminal

behavior and both sociopathy and psychopathy.

j. Criminal versatility

It refers to a history of engaging in a variety of different types

of criminal offenses, rather than specializing in one particular

type of crime. Individuals with criminal versatility may have a

broad range of criminal skills and knowledge, and may be able

to adapt to different situations and circumstances in order to

commit offenses. They may also have a history of using

different aliases or identities to avoid detection by law

enforcement.

3. Non-Related Factor

a. Impersonal sexual behavior

It refers to a tendency to engage in sexual behavior that is

detached, exploitative, or lacks emotional intimacy or

connection. Individuals with impersonal sexual behavior may

view sexual encounters as a means of gratifying their own

desires, without regard for the feelings or well-being of their

20
partner(s).

They may engage in risky or deviant sexual behavior, and

may have difficulty forming or maintaining healthy intimate

relationships. The examplesare masturbation, paying for sex and

multiple changes in partners.

b. Unstable interpersonal relationship

It refers to a pattern of tumultuous, intense, and unstable

relationships with others, characterized by frequent conflicts,

breakups, and makeups. Individuals with unstable interpersonal

relationships may have difficulty establishing and maintaining

close relationships, and may have a history of stormy romantic

relationships, friendships, or family relationships. They may be

prone to idealizing others one moment and demonizing them the

next, and may have difficulty regulating their emotions and

behavior in relationships.

B. Previous Studies

Research conducted by Yuli Anggreni 2016, with the title “The Analysis

of Sociopath of Louis Bloom’s Character in Nightcrawler”. The purpose of this

study was to analyze the types of sociopathic characters in Louis Bloom and to

describe how it could affect his perspective towards his objectives. This research

method is descriptive. The author watches the movie Nightcrawler to observe

the main character and he manipulates people to smooth his way. The author

also read the script of the film to understand Louis' character more deeply. To

analyze the sociopaths of the main character, the author uses the psychological

21
approach of Grossman's theory of psychoanalysis. The difference between the

previous research and the current research lies in the concept of research where

in this study it is conceptualized in the theory here which juxtaposes sociopat

with psychopaths. Meanwhile, in previous research, the concept of grossman

theory using a psychoanalytic approach.

Research conducted by Muhammad Dzaky Murtadha 2019, with the title

“An Analysis of Sociopathic Attributes of Sherlock Holmes in a Study In

Scarlet”. This study aims to investigate the extent to which sociopathic

characteristics are associated with Sherlock Holmes in A Study in Scarlet (2013).

The data used in this study mainly comes from Dr. Watson's narrative regarding

Sherlock Holmes' behavior. The theories applied in data analysis are Genette's

Focus (1980), Minderop Characterization (2005), Hare's Psychopathy Checklist-

Revised (PCL-R) (1998), and Scarlet's categorization (2011) of Hare's PCL-R

item. The study reveals that sociopathic attributes are built through the

assumptions of Dr. Watson and Stamford. These findings also show that the

PCL-R score of Holmes Hare (1998) is eleven, which is lower than the minimum

score of the sociopath (22-29) and higher than that of a normal person (0-6), so

he cannot be classified as both. For this reason, further studies on the topic are

needed to identify the appropriate category of Sherlock Holmes. The difference

between this research and the previous research lies in the theory used where the

theory used in this study only uses the theory from Here but in previous research

used the theory of Genette, Here, and other theories.

Research conducted by Dwitya Wirattama Sakti 2018, with the title

“Sociopathic Personality Disorder as Reflected By Rorschach as the Main

22
Character in Watchmen by Zack Snyder”. The theories that are used in this study

are theory of character and characterization, and sociopathic personality

disorder. The approach used in this study is psychological approach. This study

uses library research as the main method of gathering research data. The primary

source of this study is taken from the movie and screenplay. The secondary

sources of this study are taken from relevant books and other documents from

the internet. Based on the analysis, there are two findings. The first finding is

about the description of Rorschach’s characteristics. Rorschach’s characteristics

as a costumed hero are ruthless, self-righteous, loyal and clever. Rorschach is a

complex character because the natures of those characteristics are contradicted

with each other. However, Rorschach are able to manage to make those

characteristics as his defining traits. The second finding is about Rorschach’s

sociopathic personality disorder. Rorschach as an individual who fulfills seven

criteria that can be categorized as suffering from Sociopathic Personality

Disorder. The difference in this study lies in the theory and object of research

where in this study the object is Elli's American Psycho while in the previous

study the object was roschacs in the film watchmen.

CHAPTER III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

A. Research Design

23
The research utilized a textual analysis method to analyze the sociopathic

characteristic of Patrick Bateman, the novel's main character, since the narration

described by himself (1991). Bernard and Ryan (1998) define textual analysis

as the examination of words, sentences, ideas, paragraphs, meanings, and what

is missing in the text. Following that, the researchers used interpretive and

numerical analysis to interpret, mark, retrieve, and count the data collected from

the text.

According to Mckee (2003), textual analysis is a method in which

researchers make a "educated guess" (p. 70), which is primarily an

interpretation based on the text they analyzed. Mckee said that the method isn't

used to find a single correct interpretation because there are many possible

interpretations that are more likely to be considered 'true' in certain

circumstances. Thus, the textual analysis method is appropriate for the research

because it focuses on examining the sociopathic attributes and personalities of

Patrick Bateman. The researcher uses the theoretical frameworks of Hare's

PCL-R theory in the analysis.

B. Data and Data Sources

Data are the information that contains object matters which are collected

in order to solve the problem. The data are in the form of a word, sentence, and

phrase. The source of the data is used for the examination and considering to

make a decision in analyzing the subject matters.

The source of data of this research comes from the novel American Psycho

by Bret Easton Ellis which is limited only on the main character, Patrick

24
Bateman that appeared in the novel by analyzing the problem statement that the

researcher find. In the research, the author chose to use the electronic text

version of the novel. The novel is in the form of pdf and consists of 441 pages.

Since the novel is an e-book, it was downloaded from

http://www.pdfdrive.com/american-psycho-e191319717.html

Then, the researcher will analyze how sociopath appeared and find out the

type of sociopathic characteristic of Patrick Bateman by classified it using

Hare’s PCL-R theory in order to know what the type of sociopath characteristic

of Patrick Bateman.

C. Research Instruments

Researchers need a variety of tools to aid the process when conduct

research. A research instrument is a tool used to collect, measure, and analyze

data on a specific subject. A test, survey, questionnaire, observation, analysis of

document could be used. The researcher heavily relies on document analysis

since this is a qualitative study. The researcher is the main instrument in this

study.

The researcher aided in all aspects of the research process, such as data

collection analysis, and interpretation. Qualitative research is personal research

in which the researcher act as a research instrument (Patton 2015). This usually

requires that the researcher understand the reasons, ideas, and motivations

underlying the research. Researcher must be able to understand research and

research ideas. The researcher must analyze the data with honestly, curiosity,

and knowledge to make sure that writing is sound and appropriate. In

qualitative research, particularly this study, the researcher becomes the main

25
tool. The researcher’s supporting instrument is anything that used to gather and

analyze the data, such e-Book, internet, laptop, and books.

D. Data Collection Techniques

Based on Creswell (1998), the technique of collecting data is a technique

that is used by the researcher to find and collecting data. Data collection means

an activity that requires a series of data to collect valid information to answer

the research question. In this research, the researcher has several techniques to

collect the data, such as reading, and analysing of the novel itself. The

researcher uses narrative analysis method in order to focus on the novel. It is

used to determine the presence of certain words, concepts, themes, phrases,

characters, or sentences within texts or a set of texts and to quantify this

presence in an objective manner.

The data of the research collected from the novel of American Psycho by

Bret Easton Ellis. The technique of collecting data is documentation. Rose and

Grosvenor (2001) states that documentary research is a valueable method for

understanding and explaining social relations. Descriptive research is

conducted to get information about phenomenon when the research is done. The

researcher used documentation technique of collecting data. The document is

from the American Psycho text. The process of data collection starting from

reading the the novel, since the narration from the novel is from the main

character’s perspective and description, which consist of view of the personality

and characteristic of Patrick Bateman itself. After reading the novel, the data

were carefully selected according Hare’s PCL-R theory.

26
In collecting the data, the researcher tries to take the appropriate data related

to sociopath as the subject matter. The researcher needs to read some references

to confirm the theory of sociopath to support the research finding. The data

should be relatable with the theory that was mentioned in the previous chapter

and the researcher observes again the whole data which are relevant or

irrelevant. Then, the researcher needs to collect the data and classified them

based on the research problems. The researcher will make a numbering and

decoding for each datum and make a list of observation data which are formed

in a table which consist of elements of the research problem or the data which

is need a data number, data classification, ,and evidence that seen in the novel

American Psycho by Breat Easton Ellis. The researcher provides it as follow:

The coding data type of Patrick Bateman’s sociopathic tendencies in novel

American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis includes:

1. The numeral 1, 2, 3... that used to make an order of the data number.

2. The use of abbreviation in capital character to show the main character

in novel American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis, the researcher

abbreaviate it from Patrick Bateman into PB

a. PB: Patrick Bateman

Patrick bateman is the main charcter in the novel American

Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis who contain sociopath disorder.

3. The use of abbreviation in capital character to show the factor that

correlated with personality trait psychopathy and sociopathy which

summarize in twenty items according Hare’s PCL-R theory as it

follows:

27
a. F1: Factor 1

Labelled the core personality traits, associated with

extraversion and positive affect, may even be beneficial for the

psychopath or sociopath such as lack of affect, guilt, superficiality,

habitual lying, remorse and empathy.

b. F2: Factor 2

Includes chronically unstable, antisocial and socially deviant

lifestyle that associated with reactive anger, criminality, and

impulsive violence.

c. NR: Non Related

Personality traits items that non related with both factor 1

and factor 2.

4. The use of abbreviation in capital character to show the twenty items of

personality trait according Hare’s PCL-R theory as it follows:

a. SC: Superfacial charm/gilbness

Activities to control information to direct the opinions of

others about people, objects, or events.

b. GS: Grandiose sense of self-wort

The condition to feel superior among others, or to see others

as inferior. They have a narcissistic and greatly elevated view of

their self-esteem and importance, egocentricity and a truly

astounding sense of entitlement, and see themselves as the center of

the universe, as superior beings justified in living according to their

own rules.

28
c. SS: Stimulan Seeking

The tendency to pursue sensory pleasure and excitement.

d. PL: Pathological lying

The chronic behavior of compulsive or habitual lying

e. MNP: Manipulation for personal gain

The act of controlling or influencing others for personal

benefits and advantages. Lying, cheating, and manipulation are

natural talents for sociopaths.

f. LOR: Lack of Remorse

The condition when a person not feeling guilty or regret their

mistakes. Lack of remorse or guilt are associated with an incredible

ability to rationalize their behaviour and to shrugged from personal

responsibility for actions that cause surprise and disappointment to

family, friends, colleagues and others who have played according to

the rules.

g. SA: Shallow affect

A condition when a person has little or no emotions.

Sociopaths seem to suffer from a kind of emotional poverty that

limits the reach and depth of their feelings. Although they sometimes

seem cold and unemotional, dramatic, superficial.

h. LOE: Lack of empathy

A person that is insensitive and cruel disregard for others.

The feelings of others are not of concern to sociopath.

i. PRST: Parasitic orientation

29
The feeling or act to relying on or exploiting the others.

j. PBC: Poor behavioural control

A person who is not able or having a little control over anger

management.

k. ISX: Impersonal sexual behavior

A person who is concerned with and focused upon the sex

act itself. The examples are masturbation, paying for sex and

multiple changes in partners.

l. EBP: Early behavioural problems

A person who has the abnormal behavior since her/his

childhood. Most sociopaths experience serious behavioural

problems at an early age.

m. LOG: Lack of goals

A person who is having no goals or long-term goals.

n. IMS: Impulsivity

A tendency to act on a whim or done without forethought.

Sociopaths are unlikely to spend a lot of time weighing the pros and

cons of an action or considering the possible consequences.

o. IRS: Irresponsibility.

Lack of a proper sense of responsibility. A sociopath is

irresponsible and unreliable. They do not hesitate to use other people

to save them from trouble.

p. FAR: Failure to accept responsibility

30
A condition when a person is not able to take ownership

of your own behaviorand the consequences of that behavior.

q. UIR: Unstable interpersonal relationship

An intense and short-lived relationship.

r. JD: Juvenile delinguency

The tendency to do criminal action since juvenile.

s. RCR: Revocation of conditional release

A failure to comply with the conditions of conditional

release.

t. CV: Criminal versatility

A condition when a person commits various offenses.

The example of the collect data as it follows:

(1/PB/F1/SC)

“It's good to see you," I tell Courtney. "You look very pretty tonight. Your

face has a… youthful glow."

"You really know how to charm the ladies, Bateman." There is no sarcasm

in Courtney's voice. "Should I tell Evelyn you feel this way?" she asks

flirtatiously. "No," I say. "But I bet you'd like to.” (p. 11)

(03/PB/F1/GS)

“I can't tell what Stash is wearing since it's all black. Vanden has green

streaks in her hair... "Hi. Pat Bateman," I say, offering my hand, noticing

my reflection in a mirror hung on the wall – and smiling at how good I look.

She takes it; says nothing. Stash starts smelling his fingers.

Smash cut and I'm back in the kitchen.” (p. 13-14)

31
E. Data Validation Techniques

Qualitative research must be capable of revealing objective truths. The data

validity test in qualitative study very important. The data in this research is

considered to be valid and scientific if it has undergone the validation stage. It

is used for the responsibility that the research can be accountable. In this study,

researcher used validator in the validity of the data.

There are criteria that required in data validation:

1. A literature lecturer or practitioner

2. Have an experience about novel or psychological article.

3. Have a knowledge and understanding about psychology in novel.

These validator criteria are used to determine whether the researcher’s data

is valid or not.

F. Data Analysis Techniques

Data analysis is a component of research that is used to analyze data.

According to Creswell (2003), data analysis is the analysis of observational data

in various ways to look for pattern and themes. Spradley (1980), the analysis is

detailed sequential process that begins with an overview of cultural scene and

searches for cultural domains – categories of meaning that frequently contain

subcategories. Spradley (1980) defines four stages of data analysis in qualitative

research; there are domain, taxonomic, component, and cultural themes.

1. Domain Analysis

32
Domain analysis is obtained in order to search for general and

comprehensive social problems as well as social problems of the

situation under research. The researcher collected data from the novel

American Psycho to get the idea to be analyzed based on the problem

statement.

2. Taxonomy Analysis

Taxonomy analysis is a continuation of Domain analysis. The

researcher classified the data based on the problem statement.

3. Component Analysis

Component Analysis is used to adjust differences in Domain

Analysis or gap differences in Domain Analysis. These data are sought

through reading and analyse data source, the researcher classifies and

makes it data reduction or selected documentation. In this case,

rresearcher create tables to make analysis easier understand. This table

was created by researchers to help the rresearchers know how sociopath

characteristic occurs.

The example coding of the data:

33
Table 3.1 Table Componential

Numb
Hare’s PCL-R items er

F1 F2 Non-
The
Related
Chara
M LO LO FA PR LO IM IR PB EB RC IS UI
cter SC GS PL SA SS JD CV
NP R E R ST G S S C P R X R

PB x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

Total

34
The table is made to easier the researcher to know how many

personality traits can be a data and also find out the type of Patrick

Bateman’s tendencies of the sociopath.

4. Cultural themes analysis

Cultural analysis is the last step in this research analysis. To reach

an implicit conclusion for theme analysis, the researcher will be

searching the result furthermore in the chapter four.

35
CHAPTER IV

RESEARCH FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION

In this chapter, the researcher will examine the data findings and discuss

based of the theoretical framework outlined in Chapter II. The findings will be

presented and discussed according to Hare’s Psychopathy Checklist Revised

(Hare’s PCL-R) theory, with a focus on the types of sociopathic tendencies that

happened through the Patrick Bateman as the main character on American Psycho

novel by Bret Easton Ellis.

A. Research Finding

The research findings discuss the various sociopathic tendencies exhibited by

the main character, Patrick Bateman, in Bret Easton Ellis' novel "American

Psycho". The researcher will describe the findings obtained from the collected data

and determine whether they are consistent based on Hare's PCL-R theory, which

was introduced in Chapter II.

After the data was analyzed and reduced, a total of 72 data were identified in

the novel. The researcher categorizes three types of sociopathic tendencies. These

types are divided into factor 1, factor 2, and non-related factor, with each having its

own distinct subtypes. The factor 1 is further categorized into Superficial Charm,

Grandiose of Self-worth, Shallow Affect, Manipulation for Personal Gain, Lack of

Empathy, Pathology Lying, and Lack of Remorse, while the factor 2 is divided into

Impulsivity, Poor Behavior Control, Irresponsibility, Stimulation Seeking, and

Parasitic Orientations. The last, non-related factor is categorized based on

Impersonal Sex Relationship and Unstable in Relationship.

36
The results of the research are explained as follows:

37
Table 4.1 Table Componential

Numb
Hare’s PCL-R items er

F1 F2 Non-
The
Related
Chara
M LO LO FA PR LO IM IR PB EB RC IS UI
cter SC GS PL SA SS JD CV
NP R E R ST G S S C P R X R

PB 5 14 6 4 3 4 6 x 4 1 x 9 2 8 x x x x 5 1 72

Total 72

38
The researcher has discovered 72 data that contain of sociopathic tendencies as

reflected of Patrick Bateman in American Psycho novel. From this analysis, the

researcher identifies three types of sociopathic tendencies found in novel, there are

factor 1, factor 2, and non-related factor.

1. Factor 1 - Narcissitic

The Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) is a diagnostic tool

developed by Robert Hare to identify sociopathy and psychopathy in

individuals. The PCL-R consists of 20 items, which are divided into three

categories: Factor 1 and Factor 2, and non-related Factor. Factor 1 is related to

the core personality traits of sociopathy or psychopathy, while Factor 2 is

related to the antisocial behaviors associated with the disorder.

Factor 1 of the PCL-R consists of eight items that are related to the

interpersonal and affective traits of sociopathy and psychopathy. These traits

are considered to be the core of psychopathy and are often referred to as the

"emotional" or "primary" traits.

1.) Superficial Charm

In Without Conscience: The Disturbing World of the Psychopaths

Among Us (1993) Robert Hare describes superficial charm as a hallmark

of sociopathy and psychopathy. He notes that sociopaths are often

skilled at presenting themselves in a positive light, using their charm and

social skills to manipulate others. Hare describes sociopaths as being

superficially charming, gilb, and expert in impression management. He

39
notes that they often have a talent for saying the right thing in order to

win others over, and can be very persuasive in getting what they want.

Patrick Bateman in the novel American Psycho exhibits a superficial

charm that masks his true nature and allows him to manipulate and

deceive those around him. He presents himself as charming, confident,

and successful, but this persona is a facade that hides his true violent and

disturbed personality.

One way that Bateman exhibits superficial charm is through his

interactions with others. He is often polite, charismatic, smart, and

charming in social situations, using his charm to make impress,

manipulate, and control those around him for his personal gain. He also

presents himself as smart person that know or update with all the news

that happens.

Superficial Charm found in the data below:

1. 4/PB/F1/SC

“Oh come on, Price," I say.

"There are more important problems than Sri Lanka to worry about.

Sure our foreign policy is important, but there are more pressing

problems at hand."

"Like what?" he asks without looking away from Vanden. "By the

way, why is there an ice cube in my soy sauce?"

"No," I start, hesitantly.

"Well, we have to end apartheid for one. And slow down the nuclear

arms race, stop terrorism and world hunger. Ensure a strong

40
national defense, prevent the spread of communism in Central

America, work for a Middle East peace settlement, prevent U.S.

military involvement overseas.

We have to ensure that America is a respected world power. Now

that's not to belittle our domestic problems, which are equally

important, if not more. Better and more affordable long-term care

for the elderly, control and find a cure for the AIDS epidemic, clean

up environmental damage from toxic waste and pollution, improve

the quality of primary and secondary education, strengthen laws to

crack down on crime and illegal drugs. We also have to ensure that

college education is affordable for the middle class and protect

Social Security for senior citizens plus conserve natural resources

and wilderness areas and reduce the influence of political action

committees."

The table stares at me uncomfortably, even Stash, but I'm on a

roll”(p.17-18)

In this particular scene, Bateman and his friend are having

dinner at Evelyn's house. As they are conversing with other guests,

Price, Bateman's friend, initiates a conversation about Sri Lanka

with Stash and Vanden. However, Bateman, who seems to have an

urge to show off his knowledge, interrupts the conversation and

starts talking about the current world issues, emphasizing on the

importance of being proud to be an American, and talks about the

AID issue with intensity, as if he deeply cares about all the issues

41
that are happening right now. His speech is filled with confidence

and he appears to be willing to debate with others. It's clear that

Bateman wants to impress everyone at the dinner with his vast

knowledge and intelligence.

Despite his behavior, in fact, it can be inferred that Bateman

is quite clever as he always watches a talk show called The Patty

Winter Show every morning before going to the office. This talk

show provides updates on the latest news and topics, which Bateman

then would bring up to his friends during conversations, making him

appear knowledgeable and informed. This is just one of the many

ways that Bateman tries to make himself the center of attention and

show off his intelligence. In conclusion, this scene showcases how

Bateman's intelligence and charisma can be used as tools to impress

those around him.

Based on Hare’s theory, Hare describes superficial charm is

one of the primary tools that sociopaths use to gain the trust and

confidence of others. Despite their engaging and charismatic

demeanor, sociopaths lack genuine empathy or concern for the

feelings of others. This is match with Bateman through this scene,

he using his knowledge to impress the other, showing how smart he

is, but even he know that the other seems uncomfortably, he doesn’t

care at all.

Bateman's superficial charm is also evident in his romantic

relationships. He presents himself as a caring and attentive partner,

42
but this is simply a mask for his manipulative and abusive behavior

towards his partners. He uses his charm to lure in partners and then

manipulates and controls them to satisfy his own desires. He is a

skilled liar and manipulator, and frequently uses his charm to

convince others to do his bidding.

2. 67/PB/F1/SC

"You know, Evelyn, there were a lot of other Xmas parties in this

metropolis that I could have attended tonight yet I chose yours. Why?

you might ask. Why? I asked myself. I didn't come up with a feasible

answer, yet I'm here, so be, you know, grateful, babe,"

I say.

"Oh, so this is my Christmas present?" she asks, sarcastic. "How

sweet, Patrick, how thoughtful."

"No, this is." I give her a noodle I just noticed was stuck on my shirt

cuff. "Here."

"Oh Patrick, I'm going to cry," she says, dangling the noodle up to

candlelight. "It's gorgeous. Can I put it on now?"(p.203)

In this particular scene, Bateman arriving late to Evelyn's

Christmas party. Despite being reprimanded by Evelyn for his

tardiness, Bateman refuses to admit that he was indeed late and

instead claims that he had already been there for some time. This

highlights Bateman's tendency to lie and make excuses, a trait that

he skillfully uses to seduce women. Bateman's ability to charm and

impress women is further exemplified by his Christmas gifts to

43
Evelyn, which instantly uplift her mood. This show of affection not

only highlights his charm but also how smart he is in reading

situations and using his charisma to his advantage.

According to Hare’s theory, Hare notes that superficial

charm is often accompanied by a lack of sincerity or authenticity.

Sociopaths may be adept at telling lies or deceiving others, often

without any sense of guilt or remorse. From Hare’s statement, this

is the evidence of how Bateman's charm and charisma are merely

tools that he uses to cover up his lies and deceitful behavior. This

scene emphasizes Bateman's manipulative nature and his tendency

to use his wit and charm to seduce others, all while concealing his

true intentions.

There are other data from Superficial Charm that can find in

the Appendices section;

1/PB/F1/SC, 2/PB/F1/SC, 36/PB/F1/SC.

2.) Grandiose of Self-worth

"Grandiose sense of self-worth" is a personality trait that is assessed

in the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) developed by Canadian

psychologist Robert D. Hare. It refers to an inflated and unrealistic

sense of one's own abilities, importance, and entitlement, often coupled

with a belief that one is superior to others.

Individuals with a grandiose sense of self-worth may exhibit

behaviors such as bragging, boasting, or exaggerating their

accomplishments, and may be preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited

44
success, power, or beauty. They may also feel entitled to special

treatment or privileges and may become angry or resentful when others

do not treat them as they believe they deserve

Patrick Bateman, the protagonist of the novel, exhibits a grandiose

sense of self-worth that is central to his character. He believes that he is

superior to those around him, and that he is entitled to whatever he

desires. This grandiose sense of self-worth is evident throughout the

novel, and one of a key element of Bateman's personality.

One of the ways that Bateman exhibits his grandiose sense of self-

worth is through his constant need for validation and attention. He is

obsessed with his appearance and with maintaining the appearance of

success and wealth. He frequently goes to great lengths to maintain his

physical appearance, spending hours on grooming and exercise, and

constantly purchasing expensive clothing and accessories.

Grandiose of Self-Worth found in the data below:

1. 9/PB/F1/GS

“...After I change into Ralph Lauren monogrammed boxer shorts

and a Fair Isle sweater and slide into silk polka-dot Enrico Hidolin

slippers I tie a plastic ice pack around my face and commence with

the morning's stretching exercises... Then apply an anti-aging eye

balm (Baume Des Yeux) followed by a final moisturizing

"protective" lotion...” (p.30)

This is the scene where every morning, Bateman spends a

considerable amount of time grooming himself, using only high-

45
quality grooming products for his hair and body. He meticulously

describes the contents of each product he uses, indicating that he is

highly aware of his grooming routine and places great importance

on his physical appearance. This fixation on grooming and the use

of luxury products not only suggests a high level of attention to

detail but also underscores Bateman's inflated sense of self-

importance. He believes that he deserves only the best, and this is

reflected in the grooming products he chooses to use. In essence, his

grooming routine is a way for him to reaffirm his grandiose sense of

self-worth and to maintain his belief that he is superior to others.

This behavior is not limited to his grooming routine alone.

Throughout the novel, Bateman constantly engages in behaviors and

activities that demonstrate his grandiose sense of self-worth. He

indulges in expensive clothing, accessories, and even drugs,

believing that he is entitled to them because he is superior to others.

Bateman's obsession with grooming and the use of high-end

products is example of how his grandiose sense of self-worth

manifests. It is a behavior that reflects his belief in his own

superiority.

This scene is a clear manifestation of Bateman's grandiose

sense of self-worth, which is one of the characteristics outlined in

Hare's PCL-R theory, associated with a sense of entitlement,

arrogance, and superiority over others. Bateman's behavior, as

described in the text, demonstrates his belief that he is better than

46
others and deserves special treatment. This is evident from the way

he obsesses over his physical appearance, as demonstrated by his use

of high-quality grooming products. Bateman believes that using

these products will make him more valuable and this preoccupation

with his appearance reflects his inflated sense of self-worth.

2. 26//PB/F1/GS

“I should probably be stretching first but if I do that I'll have to wait

in line – already some faggot is behind me, probably checking out

my back, ass, leg muscles. No hardbodies at the gym today. Only

faggots from the West Side, probably unemployed actors, waiters by

night, and Muldwyn Butner of Sachs, who I went to Exeter

with,...”(p.80)

This is the scene where Bateman exercise in healt club,

Bateman's behavior in skipping the stretching exercise can be

analyzed through the lens of grandiose self-worth, which is one of

the key traits in Hare's (PCL-R) theory. Individuals with grandiose

self-worth tend to have an inflated sense of self-importance, believe

they are superior to others, and view others as inferior or worthless.

In the context of the text, Bateman's decision to skip

stretching can be interpreted as a way to assert his superiority over

others. By avoiding the exercise in front of certain individuals, he is

essentially saying that he is above them and does not need to perform

the same physical routines as they do. Furthermore, his belief that it

is disrespectful for them to see his body suggests that he sees himself

47
as too valuable to be viewed by this people. This attitude reflects his

sense of superiority and an air of arrogance that he harbors. He

considers himself to be above others and sees them as inferior beings

who are not worthy of his time or attention. This behavior is not only

indicative of his grandiose self-worth but also highlights his

disregard for social norms and rules.

Bateman's behavior of skipping the stretching exercise can

be viewed as an expression of his grandiose self-worth, a key trait in

Hare's PCL-R theory. His actions reflect an inflated sense of self-

importance and a belief that he is superior to others, which is

consistent with other examples of grandiosity in the text.

3. 38/PB/F1/GS

“...It turns out we haven't seen the show but I don't want to be tacky

enough to bringup the fact I own one, so I lightly kick Courtney

under the table. This raises herout of the lithium-induced stupor and

she says robotically,

"Patrick owns an Onica. He really does."

I smile, pleased; sip my J&B.

"Oh that's fantastic, Patrick," Anne says. "Really? An Onica?" Scott

asks. "Isn't he quite expensive?"(p.112)

Based on Hare's PCL-R theory, Bateman's behavior in this

scene reveals several traits associated with grandiose self-worth.

Bateman wanted to exhibit his social status by his desires to show

off his possession of an expensive painting by Onica, but he does

48
not want to do so in a tacky or crude way. Instead, he used a subtle

approach and kicked Courtney to divert the conversation towards

him owning the painting. This manipulation tactic used by Bateman

highlights his grandiose of self-worth, which is one of the traits

identified by Hare's PCL-R theory. This demonstrates his belief that

he is superior to others and must maintain a certain level of

sophistication in order to be recognized as such.

Bateman's need to display his superiority to others is a clear

indication of his grandiose of self-worth. He believes that he is

superior to others and that his possessions are a reflection of his

status. By owning a valuable painting, Bateman feels that he can

prove his superiority and gain the admiration of his peers.

Furthermore, his decision to manipulate Courtney into starting the

conversation about his painting highlights his need for control and

domination over others to achive his goal. By correcting her mistake

about the price of the painting, he reinforces his sense of superiority.

He wants to make sure that everyone knows that he has something

valuable and exclusive, as this reinforces his sense of grandiosity

and self-worth.

The act of kicking Courtney's leg could be interpreted as a

form of aggression or domination. It suggests that he sees others as

mere tools to be used for his own benefit, and that he is willing to

physically harm someone in order to achieve his goals. This type of

behavior is often seen in individuals with high levels of grandiose

49
self-worth, as they believe that they are entitled to use and

manipulate others to get what they want.

There are other data from Grandiose of Self-worth that can

find in the Appendices section;

3/PB/F1/GS, 5/PB/F1/GS, 8/PB/F1/GS, 10/PB/F1/GS,

21/PB/F1/GS, 25/PB/F1/GS, 40/PB/F1/GS, 49/PB/F1/GS,

50/PB/F1/GS, 54/PB/F1/GS, 58/PB/F1/GS.

3.) Pathology Lying

One of the most striking examples of Bateman's pathological lying

occurs in his interactions with his colleagues and with women.

Throughout the novel, he fabricates elaborate stories about his personal

life and achievements, often exaggerating his wealth, success, and social

status. These lies serve to boost his own ego and create an image of

himself as a powerful and successful man.

Bateman's lying is also evident in his romantic relationships,

particularly with women. He often lies about his feelings towards them,

feigning affection in order to manipulate and control them. He

frequently engages in one-night stands and casual sex, and he lies to his

partners about his intentions and level of commitment. He tells to

women that he loves them, even though he has no emotional connection

to them and is only interested in using them for sex.

Pathology Lying found in the data below:

1. 28/PB/F1/PL

50
"Don't worry. I'll just go to Dorsia alone then. It's okay."... "You

have reservations there? I mean for us?"

"Yes" I say, "Eight-thirty,"

"Well…" She emits a little laugh and then, faltering, "It was… well,

what I mean is, I've seen them. I just wanted you to see them."

"Listen. What are you doing?" I ask. "If you're not coming I have to

call someone else. Do you have Emily Hamilton's number?"

"Oh now now, Patrick, don't be… rash." (p.86-87)

Bateman's lying behavior is consistent with his pathological

tendencies, which are highlighted in Hare's PCL-R theory.

Pathological lying is one of the traits that the PCL-R measures, and

individuals who score high on this trait tend to manipulate others by

creating elaborate stories and falsehoods.

Bateman's lying about the reservation at Dorsia could be

seen as an attempt to impress Patricia and make himself seem more

important and successful than he actually is. This behavior is typical

of individuals with grandiose and narcissistic tendencies, as they

often exaggerate their achievements and status in order to gain the

admiration and approval of others.

Furthermore, Bateman's lack of remorse or guilt about lying

to Patricia is also consistent with sociopathic traits. According to the

PCL-R, sociopaths have a marked disregard for social norms and

rules, and do not feel guilty or remorseful about their actions, even

when they harm others. In this case, Bateman's lying to Patricia may

51
not seem like a harmful act, but it is still indicative of his disregard

for the truth and his willingness to manipulate others for his own

gain. Bateman's lying behavior in this scene reflects his pathological

tendencies and his willingness to manipulate others for his own

benefits, which are both key features of sociopathy as outlined in

Hare's PCL-R theory.

2. 43/PB/F1/PL

"Evelyn comes in on the call waiting of my third line and I wasn't

going to take it, but since I'm holding on the second line to find out

if Bullock, the maître d' at the new Davis François restaurant on

Central Park South, has any cancellations for tonight so Courtney

(holding on the first line) and I might have dinner, I pick it up in the

hope that it's my dry cleaners.

But no, it's Evelyn and though it really isn't fair to Courtney, I take

her call. I tell Evelyn I'm on the other line with my private trainer. I

then tell Courtney I have to take Paul Owen's call and that I'll see

her at Turtles at eight and then I cut myself off from Bullock, the

maître d'."(p. 133)

According to Hare's PCL-R theory, pathological lying is a

common trait in sociopath. Bateman's actions in this scene

demonstrate this trait quite clearly. It is not just the fact that he lies,

but how easily he does it, without any hesitation or guilt. He

effortlessly juggles multiple phone conversations, manipulating

52
each person for his own benefit, without caring about the

consequences of his actions.

Bateman's lies are not only to avoid getting caught, but also

to maintain his image and status. He lies to Evelyn about the reason

for the call, because he wants to appear busy and important, and does

not want to be interrupted by a "trivial" phone call. He lies to

Courtney about the source of the call, telling her it was from Paul,

to make himself seem more important and desirable.

In addition, Bateman's lies serve to maintain his sense of

control over his environment and the people in it. This sense of

control and power is a common characteristic of sociopaths, who

often feel a need to dominate and manipulate others to achieve their

goals. The fact that Bateman lied to Evelyn and Courtney in this

scene, even though it was a relatively minor matter, suggests that he

has a tendency to manipulate others to get what he wants. These is

consistent with the idea that sociopaths lack empathy and are

primarily focused on their own needs and desires.

Bateman's pathological lying is indicative of his sociopathic

tendencies and his lack of empathy or concern for the feelings of

others. He is willing to deceive and manipulate those around him

without a second thought, all in service of his own desires and

agenda.

3. 45/PB/F1/PL

53
"She demands that we have dinner tonight, and then says, before I

can make up a plausible lie, an acceptable. excuse,

"Where were you last night, Patrick?" I pause.

"Why? Where were you?" I ask, while guzzling from a liter of Evian,

still slightly sweaty from this afternoon's workout... "Because your

neighbor's head was in my freezer." I yawn, stretching. "Listen.

Dinner? Where? Can you hear me?"(p.133-134)

Based on Hare's PCL-R theory, the way Bateman lied to

Evelyn indicates a tendency of pathological lying. Pathological liars

often lie effortlessly and without remorse. In this scene, Bateman

does not give a direct answer to Evelyn's question about where he

was last night. Instead, he tries to change the conversation before

lying about being at a videotape store. He even lies to Evelyn

multiple times, both to avoid telling her where he was last night and

to cover up his true nature as a murderer. His muttered admission

about the neighbor's head in his freezer suggests that he is not truly

remorseful about his actions, but rather is only admitting the truth

because he feels it will go unnoticed.

This type of lying behavior is common in sociopaths, who

often use lying as a tool to manipulate others for their own benefit.

They do not feel guilty or remorseful about lying and are often

skilled at convincing others of their false narratives.

Bateman's lack of emotional response to Evelyn's distress

about her neighbor's death is another indication of his sociopathic

54
tendencies. He seems completely unaffected by the trauma she

experienced and does not offer any sympathy or support. Instead, he

focuses on manipulating the conversation to avoid revealing his true

actions. This scene is a clear demonstration of Bateman's

pathological lying and lack of empathy, which are key traits of

sociopathy according to Hare's PCL-R theory.

There are other data from Pathology Lying that can find in

the Appendices section;

46/PB/F1/PL, 63/PB/F1/PL, 68/PB/F1/PL.

4.) Manipulation for Personal Gain

The character of Patrick Bateman in the novel American Psycho

exhibits a pattern of manipulation for personal gain, which is a common

symptom of several personality disorders, including narcissistic

personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder. Bateman's

manipulation is often characterized by its purposeful and deceptive

nature, and it is used to further his own interests and exploit those around

him.

Bateman's manipulation is closely tied to his sense of entitlement

and need for control. He feels entitled to whatever he wants, and he is

willing to use whatever means necessary to achieve his goals. He often

uses his wealth and status to manipulate and control others, and he is not

above resorting to violence in order to maintain his power.

Manipulation for Personal Gain found in the data below:

1. 17/PB/F1/MNP

55
"Loutish and inconsiderate patrons or tourists who are inevitably

going to complain about our innocuous little habit… So" – I press

what I hope is fifty into a small-boned hand – "if you could make

sure we aren't bothered while we do, we would gratefully appreciate

it." I rub the hand, closing it into a fist over the bill.

"And if anyone complains, well…" I pause, then warn menacingly,

"Kick 'em out."

She nods mutely and backs away with this dazed, confused look on

her face.”(p.54)

Bateman's behavior in this scene reflects a pattern of

manipulation for personal gain. He uses his financial power to assert

control over the situation and avoid any consequences for his

actions. By giving the maid money, he is essentially buying her

compliance and ensuring that he and his friends are not kicked out

of the restaurant.

This type of behavior is consistent with Hare's theory of

sociopathy, particularly in regards to manipulation. Sociopaths are

known for their ability to manipulate others to achieve their own

goals, who often see other people as mere tools to be used for their

own benefit without any concern for the well-being or feelings of

others. They may use charm, flattery, or other tactics to gain the trust

and compliance of others, even when it is not in their best interest.

By giving the maid money, Bateman is essentially buying her

compliance and ensuring that he and his friends will not be kicked

56
out of the restaurant. In this case, Bateman is using his money as a

means of control, showing his lack of empathy and concern for the

maid's feelings.

In this scene, Bateman's behavior also reveals a lack of

empathy and a disregard for the feelings of those around him. He

does not seem to care that his actions have made the maid scared,

and instead, he simply tries to smooth things over with money. This

lack of concern for the feelings of others is a hallmark of

psychopathy and can be a significant source of distress for those who

interact with individuals with this personality disorder.

This scene highlights some of the key characteristics of

sociopathy, including manipulation, lack of empathy, and disregard

for the feelings of others. It also underscores the importance of

understanding the traits and behaviors associated with socopathy to

better recognize and respond to individuals with this disorder.

2. 37/PB/F1/MNP

“...It turns out we haven't seen the show but I don't want to be tacky

enough to bringup the fact I own one, so I lightly kick Courtney

under the table. This raises herout of the lithium-induced stupor and

she says robotically,

"Patrick owns an Onica. He really does."

I smile, pleased; sip my J&B.

"Oh that's fantastic, Patrick," Anne says. "Really? An Onica?" Scott

asks. "Isn't he quite expensive?"(p.112)

57
Bateman is using manipulation for personal gain by

leveraging his possession of an expensive painting to impress his

friends. This behavior aligns with Hare's PCL-R theory, specifically

the factor of manipulation. In this scene, Bateman is once again

demonstrating his tendency to manipulate those around him for his

own gain. During dinner with Courtney and their friends, the

conversation turns to the artist David Onica. Bateman wants to

impress his friends by showing off his wealth and taste, but he knows

that he can't simply brag about owning one of Onica's paintings

without coming across as tacky or obnoxious. Instead, he chooses to

manipulate Courtney into bringing up the topic for him.

By kicking Courtney's leg under the table, Bateman signals

to her that he wants her to start talking about Onica and his art.

Courtney, aware of Bateman's true intentions, and takes the bait and

begins discussing about Bateman owns an Onica. Bateman then

interjects with a comment about how he owns one of Onica's

paintings, which immediately catches the attention of the other

diners.

Bateman's manipulative behavior in this scene is indicative

of his grandiose sense of self-importance and need for admiration.

He wants to be seen as wealthy, and cultured, but he knows that

simply bragging about his possessions will not achieve the desired

effect. Instead, he chooses to manipulate others into discussing his

58
interests and accomplishments, thereby elevating his status in their

eyes.

Furthermore, Bateman's manipulation of Courtney

demonstrates a lack of empathy or concern for the well-being of

others. He uses her as a tool to achieve his own ends, without any

consideration for how his actions might affect her. This callous

disregard for others is a hallmark of sociopathy and a key component

of Hare's PCL-R theory.

There are other data from Manipulation for Personal Gain

that can find in the Appendices section;

34/PB/F1/MNP, 59/PB/F1/MNP.

5.) Lack of Remorse

According to Hare, sociopaths have an absence of feelings of guilt

or regret for their actions, and while they may feel pity for themselves

in case things go wrong, they do not take any responsibility or show

remorse for any damage they may have caused to others. (Hare, 1993,

p. 74) Also, it often accompanied by a lack of empathy or concern for

the feelings and well-being of others. They may view those around them

as mere objects to be used for their own benefit, rather than as

individuals with their own thoughts, feelings, and needs.

Patrick Bateman exhibits a lack of remorse throughout the book.

This is a common trait of sociopath, is characterized by the absence of

guilt or shame for one's actions. Bateman's lack of remorse is seen in his

59
violent and sadistic behavior towards others, as well as his general

disregard for human life and suffering.

In addition to his violent and sadistic behavior, Bateman's lack of

remorse is also evident in his general disregard for others' feelings and

well-being. Throughout the novel, Bateman commits a litany of violent

and sadistic acts, from brutally murdering to engaging in sexually

violent acts with prostitutes. He demonstrates a disturbingly casual

attitude towards these acts, and he shows no signs of guilt or remorse

for the harm he inflicts on others.

Lack of Remorse found in the data below:

1. 31/PB/F1/LOR

“On my way into the Chinese cleaners I brush past a crying bum, an

old man, forty or fifty, fat and grizzled, and just as I'm opening the

door I notice, to top it off, that he's also blind and I step on his foot,

which is actually a stump, causing him to drop his cup, scattering

change all over the sidewalk.

Did I do this on purpose? What do you think? Or did I do this

accidentally?(p.93)

This is the scene where Bateman is walking to the Chinese

cleaners, there is a blind homeless person on the sidewalk. From this

text, Bateman's lack of remorse is evident in his interaction with the

homeless man. Without any clear motive, he steps on the man's foot

and causes him to drop his cup, which shatters on the sidewalk.

Bateman shows no regard for the homeless person's well-being or

60
feelings and displays no sign of guilt for his actions. This is a clear

indication of his lack of remorse, which is one of the key traits

associated with sociopathy according to Hare's PCL-R theory.

Bateman shows no remorse or guilt for his actions,

suggesting a lack of emotional depth and a disregard for social

norms and rules. It suggests that Bateman is unable to feel empathy

or remorse for the harm he causes to others, even the most vulnerable

in society. Bateman's behavior in this scene is also indicative of poor

behavioral control, as he acts impulsively and without thinking

about the consequences of his actions. This impulsivity and

disregard for social norms and rules can often lead to dangerous and

harmful behaviors, as seen throughout the film. Bateman's lack of

remorse and poor behavioral control serve as key indicators of his

sociopathic tendencies, and are consistent with the traits outlined in

Hare's PCL-R theory.

2. 64/PB/F1/LOR

"...I appear in front of the D'Agostino's, sales clerks beckoning for

me to enter, and I'm using an expired coupon for a box of oat-bran

cereal and the girl at the checkout counter – black, dumb, slow –

doesn't get it, doesn't notice the expiration date has passed even

though it's the only thing I buy, and I get a small... I'm running down

Broadway, then up Broadway, then down again, screaming like a

banshee, my coat open, flying out behind me like some kind of

cape."(p. 185)

61
This is the scene where Bateman is walking out of an alley

after killing a dog and its owner, his lack of remorse is disturbingly

evident. Despite just committing a heinous crime, he walks into a

fast food restaurant and proceeds to order food. However, instead of

using a valid voucher, he deliberately uses an expired one to get his

food, displaying a lack of concern for the rules and laws that apply

to others. Also, indicating that he has a tendency to manipulate and

deceive in any situation, no matter how small. He then mutters

insults about the cashier, whom he perceives to be a black woman,

demonstrating his inherent racism and disdain for others.

What is most disturbing, however, is Bateman's behavior

after leaving the restaurant. He takes off his coat and screams in the

middle of the street, as if he has just experienced a sense of pleasure

or satisfaction from his actions. This is a clear indication of his lack

of empathy and remorse, as he is unable to recognize the gravity of

what he has just done.

This scene highlights Bateman's inability to feel guilt or remorse,

even in the face of terrible acts. His lack of emotional response to

his actions is a hallmark of sociopathy, and is further evidence of his

dangerous and unstable nature. These behaviors and actions are

indicative of individuals with sociopathic tendencies according to

Hare's PCL-R theory.

3. 71/PB/F1/LOR

62
“Do you have something against me, Patrick?” And then the

hardness in her face changes instantaneously to expectation, maybe

hope.

“Evelyn,” I sigh. “I’m sorry. You’re just…not terribly important…

to me.” (p.380)

In this scene, Bateman is seen displaying a lack of remorse

for the hurtful things he says to Evelyn during their breakup. He does

not take responsibility for his actions or consider the impact they

have on her. Instead, he simply dismisses her as unimportant and

walks away. This behavior is consistent with Hare's PCL-R theory,

which identifies a lack of remorse as a key characteristic of

sociopathy.

Bateman's disregard for Evelyn's feelings is a clear example

of his callous and manipulative behavior. He sees her only as an

object to be used for his own pleasure, and once he no longer sees

any value in their relationship, he simply discards her without any

remorse or concern for her well-being. This lack of empathy is a

hallmark trait of sociopathy, which is characterized by a pervasive

disregard for the feelings and rights of others. Bateman's behavior in

this scene is particularly concerning because it highlights the

potential danger that can arise from sociopathic individuals. Without

the ability to feel remorse or guilt, they are capable of engaging in

extremely harmful behaviors without any regard for the

consequences. In Bateman's case, his lack of empathy and remorse

63
ultimately lead to his violent and agresive actions, doesn't care other

felings and hurt them psychically and emotionally.

6.) Shallow Affect

Patrick Bateman, the protagonist of the novel American Psycho,

exhibits a shallow affect throughout the story. Shallow affect is a term

used in psychology to describe a limited range of emotional expression

and a lack of depth in emotional experience. In the case of Bateman, this

is seen in his inability to connect with others on an emotional level and

his overall lack of emotional depth.

Bateman is depicted as a wealthy and successful businessman living

in Manhattan during the 1980s. Despite his privileged lifestyle, he

appears to be emotionally numb and disconnected from the world

around him. He engages in a series of violent and sadistic acts, but he

shows little or no emotional response to these actions.

Shallow Affect found in the data below:

1. 14/PB/F1/SA

“...Dizzy, I sip my drink then take a deep breath. "But wait," Price

says. "You ain't seen nothin' yet…" He pulls his out of an inside coat

pocket and slowly, dramatically turns it over for our inspection and

says, "Mine."

Even I have to admit it's magnificent. Suddenly the restaurant seems

far away, hushed, the noise distant, a meaningless hum, compared

to this card, and we all hear Price's words: "Raised lettering, pale

nimbus white…”(p.51)

64
In this scene, we see Bateman and his friends in a restaurant,

engaging in an activity that might seem trivial to many, but is of

great significance to Bateman - the exchange of business cards. As

they compare their cards, we can see Bateman showing off his own

card with great pride at first. However, his demeanor soon changes

when he lays eyes on the cards of his friends, Van Patten and Price.

He becomes fixated on their cards, and admits that they are better

than his. This triggers a deep sense of envy and jealousy in him,

causing him to feel consumed by these emotions.

What is particularly telling about this scene is how

Bateman's reaction seems so disproportionate to the situation. The

exchange of business cards is a relatively minor social convention,

yet it triggers such a strong emotional response in him. This is

indicative of a shallow affect, a characteristic of individuals with

psychopathy who are unable to experience deep emotions or show

genuine empathy for others.

Furthermore, Bateman's overthinking and fixation on the

cards causes him to feel completely meaningless and even

hallucinate. This is a manifestation of his deep-seated insecurities

and his need for validation and status in society. It is also indicative

of his grandiose sense of self-importance, which is a common trait

among individuals with sociopathy. This scene highlights Bateman's

shallow affect, his grandiosity, and his emotional instability, all of

65
which are hallmarks of sociopathy according to Hare's PCL-R

theory.

2. 55/PB/F1/SA

"I keep watching Luis and whenever he looks over at our table I

tip my head back and laugh even if what Van Patten or

McDermott's saying isn't particularly funny, which is practically

always. I've perfected my fake response to a degree where it's so

natural-sounding that no one notices"(p. 175)

In this scene, Bateman is shown to be disconnected from his

surroundings and emotions, which is indicative of his shallow

affect as per Hare's PCL-R theory. Despite being in a social

setting with his friends, he seems to be disinterested and

apathetic towards their conversations. Instead of listening and

engaging with his friends, he is distracted by the presence of

Luis, Courtney's lover, who is also present at the restaurant. This

shows that he has a tendency to be distracted easily by external

factors and fails to pay attention to what is going on around him.

Moreover, Bateman appears to have little genuine concern

for his friends' lives and emotions. He responds to their

conversations with non-committal or dismissive comments,

which suggests a lack of empathy and an inability to connect

emotionally with others. This is a classic example of his shallow

affect, where he seems to lack the capacity to experience deep

and meaningful emotions.

66
Furthermore, his preoccupation with Luis's presence in the

restaurant reveals his tendency to obsess over things that do not

necessarily warrant such attention. His fixation on Luis suggests

that he has a tendency to get caught up in minor details and

overlook the bigger picture, which can be detrimental in his

personal and professional life.

This scene provides valuable insight into Bateman's shallow

affect, which is a core component of his sociopathic personality.

His inability to connect with his surroundings and emotions has

serious implications for his relationships and interactions with

others, as well as his ability to function effectively in society

There are other data from Shallow Affect that can find in the

Appendices section;

51/PB/F1/SA, 65/PB/F1/SA.

7.) Lack of Empathy

Throughout the novel, Patrick Bateman displays a disturbing lack of

empathy towards other people. He is unable to relate to the emotions

and experiences of others, and his behavior towards them is often

callous, cruel, and even sadistic.

Bateman's lack of empathy is reflected in his relationships with his

colleagues. He is frequently dismissive of their feelings and experiences,

and he shows little interest in their lives beyond his own superficial

concerns. He is quick to judge and condemn others, often based on

superficial criteria such as their appearance or social status. Bateman's

67
lack of empathy is also occurring in his treatment of women. He views

them as objects to be used for his own pleasure, rather than as

individuals with their own thoughts, feelings, and desires. He engages

in violent and abusive behavior towards women, including rape and

murder, and he shows no remorse or compassion for his victims.

Furthermore, Bateman's lack of empathy is also reflected in his own

sense of detachment from the world around him. He is unable to form

any kind of emotional connection with others, and he frequently finds

himself feeling isolated and alone. His sense of detachment contributes

to his overall sense of moral decay and underscores the novel's broader

themes of societal fragmentation.

Lack Of Empathy found in the data below:

1. 47/PB/F1/LOE

“Tm hungry,” he whispers. “I know that, I know that,” I say.

‘Jeez, you’re like a broken record. I’m trying to help you…” My

impatience rises. “I’m hungry,” he repeats. “Listen. Do you

think it’s fair to take money from people who do have jobs? Who

do work?” His face crumples and he gasps, his voice raspy,

“What am I gonna do?” “Listen,” I say.”(p.147)

This behavior exhibited by Bateman in the scene with the

homeless man can be analyzed through the lens of Hare's pcl-r

theory, specifically the trait of lack of empathy. Bateman's

inability to understand or feel compassion for the homeless

man's situation is indicative of a deep-seated lack of empathy for

68
others. Instead of showing understanding and compassion

towards the man's desperate situation, Bateman takes a

condescending tone and implies that the man is responsible for

his own predicament. He sees the homeless man as an object

without any value or meaning, only as a lazy bum who chose to

be in his current situation. He fails to acknowledge the social and

economic factors that may have led the man to become

homeless, and instead places the blame solely on the man's

personal choices. This lack of empathy is a key characteristic of

psychopathy and is often seen in individuals with high scores on

the PCL-R.

Additionally, Bateman's behavior towards the homeless man

can be seen as a display of his overall lack of concern for the

well-being of others. Rather than offering assistance or showing

any kindness, he chooses to belittle and intimidate the homeless

man. This lack of concern for others' needs or feelings is a

common trait among individuals with sociopath, as they struggle

to recognize or understand the emotions of others. They may

view people as mere objects to be used for their own benefit,

without regard for their feelings or wellbeing. In Bateman's case,

he sees the homeless man as nothing more than an inconvenience

or annoyance, rather than a fellow human being in need of help.

This scene highlights the significant lack of empathy and

disregard for others that characterizes Bateman's behavior

69
throughout the novel. His inability to connect with others on an

emotional level and his callous treatment of those around him

are consistent with the diagnosis of sociopathy according to the

PCL-R theory.

2. 57/PB/F1/LOE

"Would Courtney like me less if Luis was dead? This is the

question I have to face, with no clear answer burning back

across my mind, as I make my way slowly through the dining

room, waving to someone who looks like Vincent Morrison,

someone else who I'm fairly sure is someone who looks like Tom

Newman. Would Courtney spend more time with me – the time

she now spends with Luis – if he was out of the picture, no longer

an alternative, if he was perhaps… dead? If Luis were killed

would Courtney be upset?

Could I genuinely be of comfort without laughing in her face, my

own spite doubling back on me, giving everything away? Is the

fact that she dates me behind his back what excites her, my body

or the size of my dick? Why, for that matter, do I want to please

Courtney? If she likes me only for my muscles, the heft of my

cock, then she's a shallow bitch. But a physically superior, near-

perfect-looking shallow bitch, and that can override anything,

except maybe bad breath or yellow teeth, either of which is a

real dealbreaker..."(p.176)

70
In this scene, Bateman reveals his true thoughts on Luis and

Courtney's relationship, suggesting that he sees Luis as inferior

to himself and that he could easily manipulate Courtney's

feelings towards him. His thoughts show a complete lack of

empathy and disregard for other people's emotions. Instead, he

only cares about fulfilling his own desires and achieving control

over others.

Bateman's behavior in this scene highlights his lack of

empathy, a key trait in Hare's PCL-R theory. He sees people as

objects, lacking any emotional connection, and only seeks to use

them to fulfill his own needs. He does not consider the impact

his actions may have on others, and even goes as far as to

consider laughing at Courtney's grief.

This lack of empathy is a hallmark of sociopathy, as

individuals with this disorder struggle to form genuine emotional

connections with others. They may engage in shallow and

insincere interactions or manipulate others to achieve their own

goals, without considering how it affects those around them.

Bateman's disregard for the emotions of those around him is

also indicative of his unstable interpersonal relationships,

another trait in Hare's PCL-R theory. He struggles to maintain

genuine connections with others, only forming relationships to

fulfill his own needs or desires. This behavior often leads to

71
instability and shallow, insincere interactions, further isolating

him from others.

This scene provides a window into Bateman's character,

revealing his lack of empathy and unstable interpersonal

relationships. These traits are key indicators of psychopathy, a

personality disorder characterized by a lack of remorse and

empathy, and manipulative behavior towards others.

3. 61/PB/F1/LOE

“...he doesn't see me pull out the knife, the sharpest one, with the

serrated edge, and I'm asking him what he paid for Richard,

naturally but also very deliberately, without even looking up to

check to see if other people are walking down the street. In one

swift movement I pick the dog up quickly by the neck and hold it

with my left arm, pushing it back against the

streetlamp while it nips at me, trying to bite my gloves, its jaws

snapping, but since I've got such a tight grip on its throat it can't

bark and I can actually hear my hand crush its trachea. I push

the serrated blade into its stomach and quickly

slice open its hairless belly in a squirt of brown blood, its legs

kicking and clawing at me, then blue and red intestines bulge out

and I drop the dog onto the sidewalk, the queer just standing

there, still gripping the leash, and this has all

72
happened so fast he's in shock and he just stares in horror saying

"oh my god oh my god" as the sharpei drags itself around in a

circle, its tail wagging, squealing,

and it starts licking and sniffing the pile of its own intestines,

spilled out in a mound on the sidewalk, some still connected to

its stomach, and as it goes into

its death throes still attached to its leash I whirl around on its

owner and I push him back, hard, with a bloodied glove and

start randomly stabbing him in the face and head, finally

slashing his throat open in two brief chopping motions; an arc

of red-brown blood splatters the white BMW 320i parked at the

curb..." (p. 184)

This scene is a clear example of Bateman's lack of empathy

and sadistic tendencies, which are both key traits of sociopathy

according to Hare's PCL-R theory. It's apparent that Bateman

derives pleasure from inflicting pain and causing suffering to

others, as evidenced by his cruel and sadistic behavior towards

the dog and the stranger.

Furthermore, his lack of concern for the well-being and

feelings of others, whether they are animals or humans, is

indicative of a profound lack of empathy. This lack of empathy

allows Bateman to view his victims as mere objects to be used

for his own pleasure and gratification, rather than as living

beings with their own feelings, desires, and interests.

73
This behavior also suggests that Bateman has a disregard for

social norms and rules, and may be prone to impulsivity and

acting on violent impulses without regard for the consequences.

Overall, this scene provides a chilling illustration of the extreme

and disturbing behavior that can be exhibited by individuals with

sociopathic tendencies.

There are other data from Lack of Empathy that can find in

the Appendices section;

20/PB/F1/LOE, 30/PB/F1/LOE, 44/PB/F1/LOE.

3. Factor 2 - Antisocial

According to Hare's PCL-R Factor 2, Patrick Bateman in American

Psycho displays a range of traits that are associated with sociopathy,

including impulsivity, poor behavioral control, irresponsibility, stimulation

seeking, and parasitic lifestyle.

Bateman's impulsivity and poor behavioral control are closely

related to his irresponsibility and parasitic lifestyle. He engages in impulsive

and reckless behavior without considering the consequences, and he fails to

take responsibility for his actions. He relies on others for his own survival

and well-being, engaging in criminal behavior to support his lavish lifestyle.

Furthermore, Bateman's stimulation seeking is also related to his

impulsivity and poor behavioral control. He is constantly seeking new and

extreme experiences, and he is willing to take significant risks in order to

achieve them. This need for stimulation often leads to impulsive and

reckless behavior, such as drug use, excessive drinking, and violent crimes.

74
These traits of Factor 2 in Hare's PCL-R theory are all interconnected

and mutually reinforcing, and they are all present in Patrick Bateman's

character in American Psycho. His impulsivity, poor behavioral control,

irresponsibility, stimulation seeking, and parasitic lifestyle all contribute to

his overall sociopathic personality.

1.) Impulsivity

Patrick Bateman's impulsivity is a prominent feature of his

personality throughout the novel American Psycho. He consistently

exhibits impulsive behavior, often acting without considering the

consequences or the impact on others.

For example, Bateman engages in impulsive and risky sexual

behavior throughout the novel, frequently having unprotected sex with

multiple partners, including prostitutes and colleagues. He also engages

in impulsive drug use, consuming large amounts of alcohol and cocaine

without regard for his health or well-being.

Bateman's impulsivity also manifests in his violent and aggressive

behavior towards others. He frequently engages in violent outbursts,

assaulting and murdering people with little or no provocation. He shows

no remorse for his actions and is often nonchalant about the

consequences.

Impulsivity found in the data below:

1. 15/PB/F2/IMS

"..No one wants the fucking red snapper pizza! A pizza should

be yeasty and slightly bready and have a cheesy crust! The crusts

75
here are too fucking thin because the shithead chef who cooks

here overbakes everything! The pizza is dried out and brittle!"

Red-faced, I slam my Bellini down on the table and when I look

up our appetizers have arrived. A hardbody waitress stands

looking down at me with this strange, glazed expression. I wipe

a hand over my face, genially smiling up at her. She stands there

looking at me as

if I were some kind of monster – she actually looks scared.(p.53)

The scene depicts Bateman's impulsivity and inability to

control his action and emotions. He is shown to be in a state of

frustration and jealousy, triggered by the sight of his colleagues'

business cards that he perceives to be more elegant than his own.

In this state, he shouts loudly and aggressively at McDormatt,

expressing his annoyance at the constant questioning about pizza

orders. This outburst occurs without any thought or

consideration for others around him, including the maid who

happens to be present and is visibly scared by his behavior.

This behavior is consistent with Hare's PCL-R theory, which

identifies impulsivity as one of the key characteristics of

sociopathy. Impulsivity refers to the tendency to act without

thinking, often in response to strong emotions or stimuli. In

Bateman's case, his frustration and jealousy trigger an impulsive

outburst that is inappropriate for the situation and has a negative

impact on those around him. This lack of control over his

76
emotions and actions is a common trait in individuals with

sociopathic tendencies, and can lead to a range of negative

consequences in their personal and professional lives.

2. 48/PB/F2/IMS

“Tm hungry,” he whispers. “I know that, I know that,” I say.

‘Jeez, you’re like a broken record. I’m trying to help you…” My

impatience rises. “I’m hungry,” he repeats.

“Listen. Do you think it’s fair to take money from people who do

have jobs? Who do work?” His face crumples and he gasps, his

voice raspy, “What am I gonna do?”

“Listen,” I say. (p.147)

The scene where Bateman is seen interacting with a

homeless man on the street corner is a striking example of his

complete lack of empathy and disregard for human life. At first,

Bateman appears to want to help the man, but his true intentions

quickly become apparent as he starts to intimidate him by

questioning his right to beg for money. This shows that Bateman

doesn't see the homeless man as a fellow human being with a

difficult life, but rather as someone who is taking advantage of

people who have jobs.

Bateman's behavior becomes even more disturbing when he

pulls out a knife and stabs the homeless man to death. The act of

taking someone's life without any clear motive or justification is

a hallmark of impulsivity, which is one of the traits associated

77
with sociopathy according to Hare's PCL-R theory. It's like

Bateman sees no value in the homeless man's life and views him

as nothing more than an expendable object

This scene is particularly chilling because it takes place in

public, showing how little regard Bateman has for the

consequences of his actions. He seems to act purely on impulse,

without considering the impact of his behavior on those around

him. This lack of empathy and impulsivity are both major red

flags when it comes to identifying sociopathy, and they are both

traits that Bateman exhibits throughout the film.

3. 52/PB/F2/IMS

"My life is a living hell," I mention off the cuff, while casually

moving leeks around on my plate, which by the way is a

porcelain triangle. "And there are many more people I, uh, want

to… want to, well, I guess murder." I say this emphasizing the

last word, staring straight into Armstrong's face” (p. 158).

In this scene, Bateman is struggling with his frustration and

boredom while listening to Armstrong's long and seemingly

endless story about the Bahamas. As he imagines the gruesome

act of slicing his own wrist and covering Armstrong's head with

his own blood, it becomes clear that Bateman's thoughts are

becoming more and more erratic and impulsive. He even goes so

far as to consider leaving the restaurant and coming back later,

just to find that Armstrong is still talking about the Bahamas.

78
As Bateman expresses his desire to kill someone, he seems

to be acting without thinking, and the way he emphasizes the

word "murder" while pointing it directly at Armstrong's face

suggests that he is contemplating violence against him. This lack

of impulse control is a common characteristic of individuals with

sociopath, according to Hare's PCL-R theory. Bateman's lack of

empathy and impulsivity often lead him to act without regard for

the consequences of his actions. He is driven solely by his own

desires and impulses, without considering how his actions might

impact those around him.

There are other data from Impulsivity that can find in the

Appendices section;

12/PB/F2/IMS, 13/PB/F2/IMS, 23/PB/F2/IMS,

32/PB/F2/IMS, 56/PB/F2/IMS, 60/PB/F2/IMS.

2). Poor Behavior Control

Throughout the novel, Bateman demonstrates poor behavior

control in various ways. For example, he engages in impulsive and

reckless behavior, such as using drugs and alcohol excessively,

engaging in casual sex, and spending vast amounts of money on

material possessions. He also displays violent behavior, such as killing

several people in brutal and sadistic ways.

Furthermore, Bateman frequently exhibits a lack of impulse

control, as seen when he impulsively kills people without any clear

79
motive or plan. He also engages in impulsive behaviors that put him at

risk, such as engaging in unprotected sex with prostitutes.

Poor Behavior Control found in the data below:

1. 16/PB/F2/PBC

"..No one wants the fucking red snapper pizza! A pizza should

be yeasty and slightly bready and have a cheesy crust! The crusts

here are too fucking thin because the shithead chef who cooks

here overbakes everything! The pizza is dried out and brittle!"

Red-faced, I slam my Bellini down on the table and when I look

up our appetizers have arrived. A hardbody waitress stands

looking down at me with this strange, glazed expression. I wipe

a hand over my face, genially smiling up at her. She stands there

looking at me as

if I were some kind of monster – she actually looks scared.”

(p.53)

Bateman's behavior in this scene can be analyzed through

Hare's pcl-r theory, specifically the aspect of poor behavior

control. The scene where Bateman shouts at McDormatt over

pizza and scares the nearby maid is a clear example of his poor

behavior control. Bateman is unable to regulate his emotions and

actions, allowing his frustrations and jealousy to override his

judgment. Bateman's frustration and jealousy towards Price and

Van Pattern's business cards trigger his impulsive behavior,

which leads to him shouting angrily at McDormatt without

80
considering the impact it may have on those around him,

including the maid who was shocked by his outburst.

This lack of control is a characteristic commonly associated

with sociopath, as defined by Hare's PCL-R theory. Sociopaths

have a tendency to act on impulse, without regard for the impact

on others or themselves. This is often seen in their interpersonal

relationships, where they may become aggressive, manipulative,

or even violent in response to perceived slights or threats.

In the case of Bateman, his frustration over his perceived

inferiority to his colleagues causes him to lash out at McDormatt

and scare the nearby maid. This behavior is indicative of a

broader pattern of poor behavior control, where Bateman is

unable to regulate his emotions or actions in an appropriate

manner. Furthermore, his lack of empathy or concern for the

maid's reaction suggests a callousness towards others that is also

commonly associated with sociopathy. Sociopaths often lack the

ability to empathize with others or feel remorse for their actions,

leading them to engage in behavior that is harmful to others

without any apparent concern.

2. 24/PB/F2/PBC

“I'm feeling good and I shout out to her, "Hey, don't you go to

NYU?"She shakes her head, unsmiling. "Hunter?" I shout.

She shakes her head again. Not Hunter. "Columbia?" I shout –

though that's a joke.

81
She continues to concentrate on the bottle of Stoli. I decide not

to continue the conversation... "You are a fucking ugly bitch I

want to stab to death and play around with your blood," but I'm

smiling. I leave the cunt no tip”(p.69)

Bateman's behavior in this scene is consistent with poor

behavior control, a key factor in Hare's PCL-R theory. Poor

behavior control refers to an individual's inability to regulate

their impulses and emotions, leading to impulsive and often

harmful behavior.

In this scene, Bateman's use of drugs likely impaired his

judgment and increased his impulsivity. He attempted to flirt

with the girl again, but when she did not respond as he expected,

he quickly became frustrated and angry. Instead of handling the

situation calmly or walking away, he lashed out and threatened

her with violence. He also had to pay for his drink because the

voucher was no longer valid and left without leaving a tip,

indicating a lack of consideration for others.

Bateman's behavior is concerning, as it shows a disregard for

social norms and an inability to control his actions. This is a key

characteristic of individuals with sociopath and is often

associated with criminal behavior.

3. 33/PB/F2/PBC

"Two things," I say, talking over her. "One. You can't bleach a

Soprani. Out of the question. Two" – and then louder, still over

82
her – "two, I can only get these sheets in Santa Fe. These are

very expensive sheets and I really need them clean… . " But she's

still talking and I'm nodding as if I understand her gibberish,

then I break into a smile and lean right into her face. "If-you-

don'tshut-your-fucking-mouth-I-will-kill-you-are-you-

understanding-me?” The Chinese woman's panicked jabbering

speeds up incoherently, her eyes still

wide....” (p.94)

The scene where Bateman argued with an old Chinese

woman in the laundry room escalated quickly, as he was unable

to control his impulses and acted inappropriately. The woman

continued to speak in Chinese, which Bateman did not

understand, making him feel frustrated and angry. Despite the

woman's inability to understand him and the fact that he was

carrying a sheet covered in blood, Bateman continued to argue

with her, eventually shouting that he would kill her if she didn't

stop talking.

The situation was made worse by Bateman's inability to

understand the woman, which fueled his frustration and anger.

His inability to control his behavior in this situation is evidence

of poor behavior control, one of the traits identified by Hare's

pcl-r theory as a characteristic of sociopath. Bateman's lack of

empathy for the woman and his aggressive behavior indicated

that he was unable to regulate his emotions, leading him to lash

83
out without thinking of the consequences. This behavior shows

a disregard for social norms and a lack of concern for others.

There are other data from Poor Bahavior Control that can

find in the Appendices section;

19/PB/F2/PBC, 29/PB/F2/PBC, 42/PB/F2/PBC,

53/PB/F2/PBC, 62/PB/F2/PBC.

3). Irresponsibility

Bateman also demonstrates his irresponsibility through his work

and personal life. He is employed as a successful investment banker,

but he often neglects his job responsibilities and misses important

meetings. Furthermore, Bateman's lack of responsibility is also evident

in his relationships with others. He frequently lies to and manipulates

those around him, showing no regard for their feelings or well-being.

Irresponsibility found in the data below:

1. 39/PB/F2/IRS

“She stares at me, uncomprehending, then, actually looking

crestfallen, says, "Ted Madison called and so did James Baker.

They want to meet you at Fluties at six."

I sigh, glaring at her. "Well, what should you do?"

She laughs nervously, standing there, her eyes wide. "I'm not

sure." “Jean." I stand up to lead her out of the office. "What…

do . . you… say?"

84
It takes her a little while but finally, frightened, she guesses,

"Just… say… no?" "Just… say… no." I nod, pushing her out

and slamming the door” (p.120)

The scene where Bateman is in the office and his assistant

Jean informs him about a meeting invite, but he tells her to

reject it, highlights his lack of responsibility and work ethic.

This type of behavior is not uncommon for Bateman as he has

a pattern of consistently refusing meeting requests and showing

little to no interest in his work responsibilities. He frequently

arrives at the office late, leaves early, and has been known to

prioritize socializing with his business friends over his

professional obligations. This irresponsible behavior could

potentially lead to negative consequences for both himself and

his company, such as missed opportunities, lost clients, and

damaged relationships.

He prioritizes spending time with his friends and indulging

in leisure activities rather than fulfilling his professional

obligations. It is apparent that Bateman struggles with taking

his job seriously and following through with important tasks,

indicating his lack of responsibility and commitment to his

work. This behavior is a hallmark of individuals with

sociopathic tendencies and is consistent with Hare's PCL-R

theory.

2. 72/PB/F2/IRS

85
“But… what about us? What about the past?” she asks blankly.

“The past isn’t real. It’s just a dream,” I say. “Don’t mention

the past.” She narrows her eyes with suspicion.

“Do you have something against me, Patrick?” And then the

hardness in her face changes instantaneously to expectation,

maybe hope.

“Evelyn,” I sigh. “I’m sorry. You’re just…not terribly

important… to me.” (p.380)

Bateman's behavior towards Evelyn in this scene reflects his

emotional irresponsibility, as he shows no regard for her

feelings and uses her for his own pleasure. This behavior is in

line with Hare's pcl-r theory of irresponsibility, which refers to

a lack of concern for the consequences of one's actions on

others, particularly in emotional or interpersonal situations.

Bateman's actions demonstrate a pattern of emotional

detachment, as he uses Evelyn as a means of fulfilling his own

desires without considering how it might impact her

emotionally. He shows no empathy or compassion towards her,

indicating a lack of emotional maturity and responsibility. This

behavior is a hallmark of sociopathy, where individuals

prioritize their own needs and desires over the well-being of

others.

4). Stimulation Seeking

86
Patrick Bateman's stimulation seeking behavior is a prominent

feature of his psychopathy in the novel American Psycho. Stimulation

seeking refers to the need for excitement, thrill-seeking, and a lack of

fear of danger. Bateman engages in numerous behaviors throughout the

novel that demonstrate his need for stimulation.

One of the most obvious examples of Bateman's stimulation

seeking behavior is his drug use. He frequently uses drugs, such as

cocaine, to achieve a heightened state of arousal and excitement. He

also engages in risky and dangerous behavior, these behaviors provide

him with a sense of excitement and adventure that he craves.

Bateman's need for stimulation also extends to his sexual behavior.

He engages in promiscuous and deviant sexual acts, often seeking out

partners who are willing to participate in extreme and dangerous

activities. He also frequently visits prostitutes and engages in sexual

fantasies involving violence and dominance.

Stimulation seeking found in the data below:

1. 22/PB/F2/SS

"No, fuck yourself," Price screams back, trying to scramble

over the aluminum divider... then quietly he says, without

opening his eyes, "Okay. Let's do it."

"That's the spirit," I say. We take turns digging our respective

cards into the envelope until what we can't get with the cards

we press our fingers into and snort or lick off the tips then rub

into our gums.(p.68)

87
This scene reveals Bateman's tendency towards stimulation

seeking, which is a personality trait characterized by a need for

varied, novel, and intense experiences. By taking

methamphetamine, Bateman is seeking the rush of adrenaline

that comes with using drugs. His comment, "that's the spirit,"

suggests that he is eager to experience the high that the drug

will give him. This desire for intense sensations is a hallmark

of individuals with high levels of stimulation seeking.

Stimulation seeking is one of the traits identified in Hare's

PCL-R theory, which is a diagnostic tool used to assess

psychopathy in individuals. Individuals with high levels of

stimulation seeking tend to engage in risky behaviors and may

be more prone to drug and alcohol abuse. In Bateman's case,

his desire for intense experiences may be a contributing factor

to his erratic and dangerous behavior throughout the novel.

Furthermore, Bateman's drug use also suggests a lack of

impulse control, which is another trait identified in Hare's PCL-

R theory. By using drugs, Bateman is acting impulsively and

without regard for the potential consequences of his actions.

This lack of impulse control may manifest in other areas of his

life, such as his violent outbursts or his tendency to engage in

risky sexual behavior. This scene indicates where Bateman and

Price take drugs provides insight into Bateman's personality

and his propensity for dangerous and impulsive behavior.

88
27/PB/F2/SS

“I take a quick hot shower and then head to the video store

where I return two tapes I rented on Monday, She-Male

Reformatory and Body Double, but I rerent Body Double

because I want to watch it again tonight even though I know I

won't have enough time to masturbate over the scene where the

woman is getting drilled to death by a power drill since I have

a date with Courtney at seven-thirty at Café

Luxembourg.”(p.81)

In the scene where Bateman rushes out of the Health Club

after his exercise, he quickly heads to return two video tapes.

Upon examining the titles of the videos he rented, it becomes

apparent that they are all disturbing in nature. Bateman goes on

to admit that he actually wants to masturbate to the scenes in

which a girl is killed by a drill. This extreme fascination with

violent and disturbing content indicates that Bateman is

constantly seeking stimulation, particularly in the form of

violent or perverse acts.

This behavior is consistent with Hare's pcl-r theory of

sociopathy, which highlights the importance of stimulation

seeking as a key trait of sociopaths. Bateman's desire for

disturbing content shows a lack of sensitivity to normal social

norms and a tendency towards reckless and impulsive behavior.

Additionally, his desire to masturbate to violent content is also

89
indicative of his disregard for others' well-being and a lack of

empathy. This scene, Bateman's actions illustrate a deeply

ingrained tendency towards stimulation seeking, one of the key

markers of sociopath according to Hare's PCL-R theory.

There are other data from Stimulation Seeking that can find

in the Appendices section;

41/PB/F2/SS, 66/PB/F2/SS

5). Parasitic

Patrick Bateman's parasitic behavior is another aspect of his

psychopathy in the novel American Psycho. Parasitism refers to a

person's tendency to exploit and manipulate others for their own

personal gain, without regard for the other person's well-being.

Additionally, Bateman engages in parasitic behavior in his romantic

and sexual relationships. He often dates women who are financially

successful, using them for their wealth and social status. He also uses

his charm and manipulation to coerce them into sexual acts that fulfill

his own desires, without any concern for their feelings or consent.

Parasitic behavior found in the data below:

1. 70/PB/F2/PRST

“But… what about us? What about the past?” she asks blankly.

“The past isn’t real. It’s just a dream,” I say. “Don’t mention

the past.” She narrows her eyes with suspicion.

90
“Do you have something against me, Patrick?” And then the

hardness in her face changes instantaneously to expectation,

maybe hope.

“Evelyn,” I sigh. “I’m sorry. You’re just… not terribly

important… to me.”

Without missing a beat she demands, "Well, who is? Who do

you think is, Patrick? Who do you want?" After an angry pause

she asks, "Cher?"

"Cher?" I ask back, confused. "Cher? What are you talking

about? Oh forget it. I want it over. I need sex on a regular basis.

I need to be distracted."

In a matter of seconds she becomes frantic, barely able to

contain the rising hysteria that's surging through her body. I'm

not enjoying it as much as I thought I would.

"But what about the past? Our past?" she asks again, uselessly.

"Don't mention it," I tell her, leaning in.

"Why not?" "Because we never really shared one," I say,

keeping my voice from rising (p.380-381)

In the scene where Bateman breaks up with Evelyn, it

becomes evident that he is exhibiting parasitic tendencies,

which is one of the traits outlined in Hare's PCL-R theory. By

saying that Evelyn is not important to him and that he doesn't

care about her feelings of falling in love with him, Bateman

demonstrates his lack of interest in forming emotional

91
connections with others. Instead, he views people, particularly

women, as disposable objects that can be used for his personal

gain and pleasure, which is a common characteristic of those

with parasitic tendencies.

Throughout the story of the novel, Bateman repeatedly

manipulates and uses women for his own pleasure without any

regard for their feelings or well-being. He sees them as objects

to be conquered and discarded, rather than individuals

deserving of respect and consideration. This parasitic behavior

is indicative of a deeper lack of empathy and inability to form

meaningful connections with others, which are hallmark traits

of those with sociopath.

Furthermore, Bateman's manipulation and use of others is

not limited to romantic relationships. He also uses his

colleagues, friends, and even his victims for his own benefit,

whether it be to gain status or fulfill his twisted desires. This

parasitic behavior reflects his inability to take responsibility for

his own actions and the harm he causes to those around him, as

he views others solely as a means to an end rather than as

individuals deserving of respect.

3. Non-Related Factor

Patrick Bateman's interpersonal sexual behavior and unstable

interpersonal relationships are major themes in the novel American Psycho.

Throughout the book, Bateman engages in a variety of sexual activities,

92
often with multiple partners, and his relationships with both men and

women are marked by instability and dysfunction. Bateman's sexual

behavior is characterized by a sense of detachment and objectification. He

views sex primarily as a means of asserting his dominance over others and

satisfying his own desires.

Bateman's relationships with women are particularly problematic.

He is unable to form meaningful emotional connections with these women,

and he frequently engages in abusive or violent behavior towards them.

Bateman’s relationships with men are also marked by instability and

dysfunction. He engages in sexual activity with several of his male

colleagues and friends, often in group settings. These encounters are

characterized by a sense of competition and one-upmanship, with Bateman

seeking to assert his dominance over his partners.

1). Impersonal Sexual Behavior

One of the most disturbing aspects of the character of Patrick

Bateman in the novel American Psycho is his impersonal and often

violent sexual behavior towards women. Bateman engages in a range

of sexual acts throughout the novel, but they are all characterized by a

complete lack of emotional connection or intimacy. He engages in

sexual activity with several of his male colleagues and friends, often in

group settings. These encounters are characterized by a sense of

competition and one-upmanship, with Bateman seeking to assert his

dominance over his partners.

Impersonal Sexual Behavior found in the data below:

93
1. 7/PB/NR/ISX

“I masturbate, thinking about first Evelyn, then Courtney, then

Vanden and then Evelyn again, but right before I come – a weak

orgasm – about a near-naked model in a halter top I saw today

in a Calvin Klein advertisement.” (p.28)

In this scene, Bateman's behavior towards sexual intimacy

displays a lack of emotional connection, which is indicative of

his interpersonal sexual behavior, as defined by Hare's PCL-R

theory. After attending a dinner party and having sex with his

girlfriend Evelyn, Bateman returns to his apartment where he

masturbates while imagining having sex with multiple women.

Hi focus on physical pleasure rather than emotional intimacy

suggests a shallow and purely physical approach to sexual

behavior. This behavior is consistent with the characteristics of

psychopathy, which often involves a lack of emotional

connection and a tendency to view sexual partners as objects to

satisfy one's own desires.

According to Hare's Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-

R) theory, one of the characteristics of sociopathy is

interpersonal sexual behavior, which refers to a tendency to view

others primarily as sexual objects rather than as individuals with

emotional and relational needs. In the scene described,

Bateman's behavior indicates a lack of emotional connection to

the women he is imagining having sex with. This suggests that

94
he is more focused on the physical aspect of sex rather than the

emotional connection that often accompanies it.

2. 35/PB/NR/ISX

"Well, my theory's always been," I start, "men are only here to

procreate, to carry on the species, you know?"

They both nod.

"And so the only way to do that," I continue, choosing words

carefully, "is… to get turned on by a little hardbody, but

sometimes money or fame". (p.104)

In the scene where Bateman discusses women with his

friends, it becomes clear that his view on women is extremely

shallow and disrespectful. He sees them as objects, whose only

purpose is to satisfy his sexual desires or to be used as a tool to

increase his social status. This attitude is a clear indication of his

lack of empathy, and his inability to form meaningful

relationships with people. Bateman's view on women also

reflects his overall narcissistic personality, which is a key

characteristic of sociopath according to Hare's PCL-R theory. He

only values women for their physical appearance, and doesn't

take into consideration their intelligence, personality, or

feelings. This objectification of women is a form of

dehumanization, which allows him to treat them as mere objects

that can be used for his pleasure. his disregard for women's

feelings and emotions is evident in the way he objectifies them,

95
reducing them to mere commodities to be obtained and discarded

at will. This attitude not only devalues the worth of women but

also highlights Bateman's inability to form meaningful and

lasting relationships with others.

In short, Bateman's statement about men's duty to give

offspring is a reflection of his desire for control and power over

others. He belief that men are duty-bound to procreate and can

only do so through sexual attraction, money or fame suggests

that he has no regard for the emotional and personal aspects of

relationships. He sees women as a means to fulfill his own

desires, and he expects men to do the same. This is a clear

example of how psychopaths view interpersonal relationships,

as something to be exploited for their own benefit.

There are other data from Impersonal Sex Relationship that

can find in the Appendices section;

6/PB/NR/ISX, 11/PB/NR/ISX, 35/PB/NR/ISX.

2). Unstable Interpersonal Relationship

Throughout the novel American Psycho, Patrick Bateman displays a

pattern of unstable interpersonal relationships. He is unable to form

meaningful connections with others and frequently engages in behavior

that pushes people away. One example of Bateman's unstable

relationships is his treatment of women. He objectifies and degrades

them, viewing them as nothing more than sexual objects to be used and

discarded. He engages in abusive and violent behavior towards them,

96
including rape and murder. Bateman's relationships with men are also

unstable. He is often jealous and resentful of his male colleagues,

comparing himself to them and seeking to outdo them in every way

possible. He is deeply insecure and constantly seeks validation and

approval from those around him. This leads him to engage in behaviors

that are often erratic and destructive, including drug use, violence, and

reckless behavior.

Unstable Interpersonal Relationship found in the data below:

1. 69/PB/NR/UIR

“But… what about us? What about the past?” she asks blankly.

“The past isn’t real. It’s just a dream,” I say. “Don’t mention

the past.” She narrows her eyes with suspicion.

“Do you have something against me, Patrick?” And then the

hardness in her face changes instantaneously to expectation,

maybe hope.

“Evelyn,” I sigh. “I’m sorry. You’re just… not terribly

important… to me.”(p.380)

In this scene, Bateman's lack of emotional connection is

evident as he breaks up with Evelyn. The conversation is a clear

indication of his inability to form and maintain stable

relationships with people around him, especially women.

Bateman is not interested in building emotional connections

and, in fact, seems to view emotions as an inconvenience or even

a weakness.

97
The conversation between Bateman and Evelyn is one-sided,

with Bateman doing most of the talking while Evelyn remains

stunned and hurt. He talks about how he feels nothing for her

and how she has never been important to him. This statement

reveals Bateman's lack of empathy and disregard for Evelyn's

feelings, as well as his inability to form meaningful emotional

connections.

Furthermore, Evelyn's surprise at Bateman's statement

suggests that he has been masking his true feelings and

intentions throughout their relationship, further demonstrating

his shallow and insincere nature. Bateman's lack of empathy and

disregard for others' emotions are characteristic of those with

Unstable Interpersonal Relationships, as described in Hare's pcl-

r theory. He struggles to maintain genuine emotional

connections with others and engages in superficial or insincere

interactions, often leading to unstable and problematic

relationships.

B. DISCUSSION

Finally, the researcher discusses this study based on the research findings,

which identifies types of sociopathic tendencies exhibited by the protagonist,

Patrick Bateman, in the novel American Psycho.

1. Types of sociopathic tendencies as reflected by Patrick Bateman as the

main character in American Psycho.

98
The researcher found there are three types of sociopathic tendencies as

reflected by Patrick Bateman in the novel American Psycho by Bret Easton

Ellis. The types of sociopathic tendencies as reflected by Patrick Bateman

presented throughout the novel American Psycho that has found are Factor 1,

Factor 2, and Non-Related Factor.

The researcher found 72 data that contain of sociopathic trait. They include

42 data of Factor 1, 24 data of Factor 2, and 6 data of Non-Related Factor.

The common types of sociopathic tendencies that has found in the character

Patrick Bateman is Factor 1. Factor 1 of the PCL-R includes traits such as

superficial charm, grandiosity, pathological lying, and lack of empathy. These

traits are often associated with an individual's interpersonal style and ability to

manipulate others. Bateman exhibits many of these traits throughout the novel,

particularly in his interactions with women.

Bateman's superficial charm is a defining characteristic of his personality.

He is able to put on a charming and charismatic persona when it suits him, often

using this to manipulate others for his own gain. For example, he uses his charm

to seduce women, often engaging in sexually deviant behavior with them

before discarding them when they no longer serve his purposes.

Based on the analysis in the research findings, the researcher concludes that

perhaps the most striking trait of Bateman's personality in relation to Factor 1

of the PCL-R is his garndiose of self-worth and his lack of empathy. Patrick

Bateman's grandiose self-worth and his lack of empathy are closely linked in

the sense that view of himself as superior to others, which leads him to view

99
others as objects to be used for his own pleasure and to manipulate and exploit

them without remorse or guilt.

Bateman's grandiosity is evident throughout the novel in his interactions

with others. This inflated sense of self-worth can be seen in his treatment of

colleagues and acquaintances, whom he often belittles and dismisses as inferior

to himself. Bateman's lack of empathy is also a defining characteristic of his

personality, which is evident in his behavior towards others, particularly

women. This lack of empathy is often seen as a core characteristic of

sociopathy and is closely related to an individual's ability to manipulate and

exploit others without remorse or guilt.

Bateman's grandiose self-worth and lack of empathy intersect when it comes

to his treatment of women. He views himself as entitled to their attention and

affection, often manipulating and coercing them into sexual encounters. He

views women as objects to be used for his own pleasure and has no regard for

their emotional or physical well-being.

For example in the data 57/PB/F1/LOE, In this scene, Bateman reveals his

true thoughts on Luis and Courtney's relationship, suggesting that he sees Luis

as inferior to himself and that he could easily manipulate Courtney's feelings

towards him. His thoughts show a complete lack of empathy and disregard for

other people's emotions. Instead, he only cares about fulfilling his own desires

and achieving control over others. Moreover, Bateman's grandiosity makes him

believe that he is above the law and can get away with any crime he commits.

This further reinforces his lack of empathy, as he feels no remorse or guilt for

100
his violent and sadistic behavior towards others.

Furthermore, Bateman's pathological lying is also closely related to his

grandiosity. He often fabricates stories about his past and present experiences,

presenting himself in a more favorable light than is warranted. He lies

effortlessly and without hesitation, and it often seems that he believes his own

lies.

In addition to Factor 1, Bateman also exhibits many of the traits associated

with Factor 2 of the PCL-R. These include impulsivity, poor behavioral

control, irresponsibility, stimulation-seeking, and parasitic lifestyle. These

traits are often seen in individuals with sociopathic tendencies and are closely

linked to their inability to control their behavior and their tendency to engage

in impulsive and reckless actions without consideration for the consequences.

Patrick Bateman's impulsivity and poor behavioral control are closely

connected through in the. Impulsivity refers to the tendency to act on impulse

without considering the potential consequences, while poor behavioral control

refers to the inability to regulate one's emotions and behavior. Throughout the

novel, Bateman exhibits both of these traits in a number of ways.

Bateman's impulsivity is evident throughout the novel in his impulsive

behavior, which includes his violent outbursts, drug use, and sexual encounters.

His impulsive behavior often leads him to act without thinking, which can

result in disastrous consequences for those around him. Then, His poor

behavioral control is also apparent in his inability to regulate his emotions and

control his impulses. Bateman's behavior is often erratic and unpredictable, and

101
he frequently engages in risky and dangerous behavior without considering the

consequences.

For example, in the data 48/PB/F2/IMS, he kills a homeless man without

unclear reason on a whim and in the data 15/PB/F2/IMS, he shouts loudly and

aggressively at his friend, McDormatt, expressing his annoyance at the

constant without any thought or consideration for others around him, including

the maid who happens to be present and is visibly scared by his behavior.

Irresponsibility is another trait in factor 2 that Bateman exhibits, as he fails

to take responsibility for his actions. He is also unable to maintain long-term

relationships or commitments and is often seen as unreliable and flaky.

Bateman's stimulation-seeking behavior is a significant factor in his

impulsive and reckless behavior. He is constantly seeking out new and exciting

experiences to satisfy his desire for stimulation, often engaging in drug use,

sex, and violence. This behavior is often seen in individuals with sociopathic

tendencies, as they are unable to experience pleasure or satisfaction in normal

ways and must seek out extreme forms of stimulation to feel any sense of

fulfillment.

Bateman's parasitic lifestyle is evident in his inability to maintain a steady

job or provide for himself. He relies on his family's wealth to support his

lifestyle, and he frequently engages in activities that are financially

unsustainable, such as buying expensive clothing and dining at expensive

restaurants.

Then, Non-Related Factor that happens in Patrick Bateman through the

102
novel American Psycho. Patrick Bateman's impersonal sexual behavior and his

unstable relationships are closely connected in the novel American Psycho.

Bateman's sexual behavior is characterized by a lack of emotional connection

and a focus on superficial physical gratification. This behavior is reflective of

his sociopathic tendencies, as individuals with sociopathy often struggle to

form meaningful emotional connections with others.

Throughout the novel, Bateman engages in numerous sexual encounters

with various women, often objectifying and views these women as disposable

objects, using them solely for his own pleasure and satisfied his sexual desires.

Bateman's unstable relationships are also closely tied to his sexual behavior.

He is unable to maintain meaningful relationships with women, often becoming

bored with them quickly and moving on to the next conquest. This behavior is

reflective of his impulsivity and stimulation-seeking tendencies, as he is

constantly searching for new and exciting experiences to satisfy his desire for

stimulation.

Furthermore, Bateman's unstable relationships are also marked by his

tendency towards violent and abusive behavior. He is prone to sudden outbursts

of anger and aggression, often directed towards his sexual partners. This

behavior is reflective of his poor behavioral control and impulsivity, as he is

unable to regulate his emotions and impulses.

All of the items of Factor 1, Factor 2, and Non-Related Factor of the PCL-

R are all interconnected and mutually reinforcing in Patrick Bateman's

character. His sociopathic personality is defined by his superficial charm,

103
grandiosity, pathological lying, lack of empathy, impulsivity, poor behavioral

control, irresponsibility, stimulation-seeking, and parasitic lifestyle. All of

these traits contribute to his disturbing and violent behavior throughout the

novel, as well as his inability to form meaningful connections with others.

CHAPTER V

CONCLUSIONS AND SUGGESTIONS

104
After exploring and explaining the sociopathic tendencies reflected by

Patrick Bateman as the main character in American Psycho, the researcher proceeds

to the conclusion chapter, which presents conclusions, implications, and

suggestions related to the analysis and discussion presented in Chapter IV.

A. CONCLUSSIONS

After classifying and analyzing, the researcher presents the conclusion and

suggestion related to what the researcher has analyzed in the chapter IV. Based

on the analysis of sociopathic tendencies as reflected by Patrick Bateman as the

main character in American Psycho, the researcher concludes that:

1. There are three types of Sociopathic tendencies that seen in Patrick

Bateman throughout in the novel American Psycho, there are Factor 1,

Factor 2, and Non Related Factor. There are 72 data of

Socciopathic treats that the researcher has found. 42 data are classified

as Factor 1, 24 data are classified as Factor 2, and 6

data are classified as Non-Related Factor. The researcher divides the

three of them being a separated based on the connectedness. It indicates

that the commons sociopathic treats that occurs in Patrick Bateman

throughout the novel America Psycho is Factor 1. Factor 1 divides in

seven of element treats, there are Superficial Charm, Grandiose of Self-

worth, Shallow Affect, and Manipulation for Personal Gain, Lack of

Empathy, Pathology of Lying, and Lack of Remorse.

Factor 1 occurs when Patrick Bateman’s Grandiose of Self-worth as

the core aspect of this factor, which this trait is closely linked to other

traits of Factor 1 in Hare's PCL-R theory where describe how he sees

105
himself as superior to others in terms of his wealth, status, intellect, and

it leads him to view others as objects to be used for his own pleasure and

to manipulate and exploit them without remorse or guilt.

The second is Factor 2, which divides into five element traits; there

are Impulsivity, Poor behavior Control, Irresponsibility, Stimulation

Seeking, and Parasitic Behavior. Factor 2 occurs when Patrick

Bateman's impulsivity as the core of this factor, which this trait closely

linked to other traits of Factor 2 in Hare's PCL-R theory where describe

throughout the novel that Bateman's impulsive behaviors often leads

him to act without thinking, which can result in disastrous consequences

for those around him.

The last is Non-Related Factor, which divides into two elements of

traits; there are Impersonal Sexual behavior and Unstable of

Relationship. Non-Related Factor occurs when Patrick Bateman's

unstable relationships are closely tied to his sexual behavior, which is

he unable to maintain meaningful relationships with women, just use

them for his own pleasure, and often becoming bored with them quickly

and moving on to the next conquest.

B. IMPLICATIONS

In short, the analysis conducted in this research revealed the existence of

numerous sociopathic tendencies in the novel American Psycho. The primary

objective of the analysis was to identify the specific types of sociopathic

tendencies that are present in Patrick Bateman as the main character in the

novel. Using the theoretical and methodological framework adopted in this

106
study, the researcher was able to identify and classify the sociopathic traits

exhibited by the characters in the novel and determine the distinct types of

sociopathic tendencies that reflected in Patrick Bateman.

C. SUGGESTIONS

The researcher found 72 data of analysis include three types of

sociopathic tendencies, there are 42 data are classified as Factor 1, 24 data are

classified as Factor 2, and 6 data are classified as Non Related Factor. Based on

the conclusions of analysis of sociopathic tendencies as reflected by Patrick

Bateman as the main character in American Psycho, the suggestions can be

drawn as follows:

1. For The Readers

For the readers, hopefully, this research can help the reader more

understand about the Psychological approach that is implemented in

analyzing literature works, especially about sociopath personality

disorder that occur in literary work or people in real life.

2. For The Next Researchers

This research can be used as a conception and reference for doing

the research related to Sociopath. The result of this thesis can

help the next researchers who want to study or analyze sociopath in

literary works especially Sociopathic Tendencies as Reflected by Patrick

Bateman as The Main Character in American Psycho. By reading this

research, the researcher hopes that the next researchers can develop their

knowledge about Sociopath and American Psycho. Also, the researcher

107
hopes that the next researchers can give them the new

perspective of Sociopathic Personality Disorder in literary works that

happens not only in novel. The next researchers may take any of analysis

procedures of this research in order to get an overview to conduct

another analysis related to Sociopath.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Abbott, H. P. (2008). The Cambridge Introduction to Narrative. Cambridge

University Press.

Angraini, Y. (2016). The analysis of sociopath of Louis Bloom’s character in

108
nightcrawler. Journal of Anglo-Saxon, 7(2), 139-150

American Psychiatric Association (2000): Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of

Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Washington, DC,

American Psychiatric Association.

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual

of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).

Anderson, D.M., Keith, J., Novak, P.D., and Elliot, M.A. (2002). Mosby’s

Medical, Nursing, & Allied Health Dictionary.Sixth Edition.St. Louis,

Mosby Inc.

Bernard, H.R. (1998). Text Analysis: Qualitative and Quantitative Methods. In

Ember et al (Eds), Handbook of methods in cultural anthropology (pp.

595-645). New Delhi: Altamira Press.

Bonn, Maria (2010). The Cambridge Introduction to Narrative. Cambridge

University Press.

Cleckley, H. (1941).The Mask of Sanity. C.V. Mosby Company. St. Louis.

Cooke, D. J., & Michie, C. (2001). Refining the construct of psychopathy:

Towards a hierarchical model. Psychological Assessment.

Creswell, J. W. (2003). Research Design Qualitative, Quantitative and Mixed

Methods Approach. Los Angels: Sage

Hare, R. D., Hart, S. D., & Harpur, T. J. (1991). Psychopathy and the DSM-IV

criteria for antisocial personality disorder. Journal of Abnormal

Psychology.

Hare, R. D. (1993). Without conscience: The disturbing world of the

psychopaths among us. Guilford Press.

109
Hare, R. D. (2003). The Psychopathy Checklist—Revised (2nd ed.). Multi

Health Systems.

Kim, J. (2017). Patrick Bateman: An Embodiment of American Society's

Psychopathy. The International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

Research.

Kiehl, K. A., & Hoffman, M. B. (2011). The criminal psychopath: History,

neuroscience, treatment, and economics. Jurimetrics: The Journal of Law,

Science & Technology.

Lilienfeld, S. O., & Andrews, B. P. (1996). Development and preliminary

validation of a self-report measure of psychopathic personality traits in

noncriminal populations. Journal of Personality Assessment.

Lodge, D. (1992). The Art of Fiction. Vintage.

McKee, A. (2003). A beginner’s guide to textual analysis. Australia: Sage

Publication Ltd.

Mackenzie, P.M. (2014). Psychopathy, antisocial personality & sociopathy:

The basics a history review: The Forensic Examiner.

Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary. (2004). Eleventh Edition.

Springfield MA: Merriam-Webster Inc.

Meyer, R.G., Wolverton, D., and Deitsch, S. (1994). Antisocial Personality

Disorder. In Friedman, H.S., (Ed.) The Encyclopedia of Mental Health.

Murtadha, M. D., (2019) An Analysis of Sociopathic Attributes of Sherlock

Holmes in A Study in Scarlet. S1 thesis, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia.

Patrick, C. J., & Fowles, D. C. (2009). Research on psychopathy: Anintegrative

review. In P. Corr & G. Matthews (Eds.), The Cambridge Handbook of

110
Personality Psychology. Cambridge University Press.

Peterson, T.J. (2016). Sociopath Definition: Extremely Antisocial, No

Conscience, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2021, Oct 1 from

https://www.healthyplace.com/personality-disorders/sociopath/sociopath-

definition-extremely-antisocial-no-conscience

Rimmon-Kenan, S. (1987). Literature and Psychoanalysis: Intertextual

Readings. Methuen.

Rose, R., & Grosvenor, I. (2001). Doing Research in Special Education: Ideas

into Practice (1st ed.). Routledge.

Sakti, D. W., (2018). Sociopathic personality disorder as reflected by

Rorschach as the main character in Watchmen by Zack Snyder. Skripsi

thesis, Sanata Dharma University.

Schmid. D. (2005). Capitalism, Psychopathy, and Serial Murder in American

Psycho. Modern Fiction Studies.

Shiach, M. (Ed.). (2007). The Cambridge Companion to the Modernist Novel.

Cambridge University Press.

Skeem, J. L., & Cooke, D. J. (2010). Is criminal behavior a central component

of psychopathy? Conceptual directions for resolving the debate.

Psychological Assessment.

Spradley, J. P. (1980). Participant Observation. United States of America:

Holt, Rinehart and Winston, Inc.

The Harvard Mental Health Letter. (2000) Antisocial Personality Part I.

111
Harvard Medical School.

112
APPENDICES

NO Coding Data TEXT HARE’S PCL-R ANALYSIS Comment

It's good to see you," I tell Superficial Charm In this scene Bateman and Price
Courtney. "You look very pretty come to dinner invitation from
tonight. Your face has a… Evelyn, then Courtney greets
youthful glow." Bateman and he give compliments
"You really know how to charm that she is youthful glow. This act

1 1/PB/F1/SC the ladies, Bateman." There is indicates that Bateman knows well
no sarcasm in Courtney's voice. how to make good impression at
"Should I tell Evelyn you feel other so people think that he is
this way?" she asks sweaty man.
flirtatiously. "No," I say. "But I
bet you'd like to.(p. 11)

113
"Oh god. It's a mess," Evelyn Superficial Charm In this scene Evelyn thought that she
gasps. "I swear I'm going to make mess with her food, seeing
cry." this, Bateman said the dish that she
'The sushi looks marvelous," I made was good to amuse her. From
tell her soothingly. this act, it indicates that Bateman
"Oh it's a mess," she wails. "It's tries to be look like sweet guy to get
a mess.” "No, no, the sushi a good impression.
looks marvelous," I tell her and
2 2/PB/F1/SC
in an attempt to be as consoling
as possible I pick up a piece of
the fluke and pop it in my
mouth, groaning with inward
pleasure, and hug Evelyn from
behind; my mouth still full, I
manage to say "Delicious. (p.
12)

114
I can't tell what Stash is Grandiose of Self- This is where Bateman want to get to
worth
wearing since it's all black. know with Evelyn’s friends. In this
Vanden has green streaks in scene Bateman belive with self-
her hair... "Hi. Pat Bateman," I confident that he looks good and
say, offering my hand, noticing handsome while introduced with
my reflection in a mirror hung them. The way he saw and judge

3 3/PB/F1/GS on the wall – and smiling at about what they wear, and how
how good I look. confident with his appearance is like
She takes it; says nothing. Stash he tries to make comparisons and to
starts smelling his fingers. impress how good him with others,
Smash cut and I'm back in the this act indicates that he feels above
kitchen.(p. 13-14) than others.

115
"Oh come on, Price," I say. Superficial charm This is the scene where Price pop up
"There are more important the conversation with Stash and
problems than Sri Lanka to Vanden talking about Sri Lanka
worry about... We also have to while dinner, then Bateman
ensure that college education is interrupted by long-talking intense
affordable for the middle class about how he thinks about the world
and protect Social Security for as if he cares about all the things and

4 4/PB/F1/SC senior citizens plus conserve all the issues that happens right now.
natural resources and He explain it with intense about what
wilderness areas and reduce he thought, looks like he tries to open
the influence of political action discuss and even like ready to debate
committees." with other. From his act, it is look
The table stares at me like pure to impress anyone at dinner
uncomfortably, even Stash, but with how he looks has a lot of
I'm on a roll.” (17-18) knowledge and smart guy.

116
"Oh come on, Price," I say. Grandiose of Self- This is the scene where Price pop up
worth
"There are more important the conversation with Stash and
problems than Sri Lanka to Vanden talk about Sri Lanka while in
worry about... We also have to the dinner, then Bateman interrupted
ensure that college education is by long-talking intense about how he
affordable for the middle class thinks about the world as if he cares
and protect Social Security for about all the thing and all the issues
senior citizens plus conserve that happens right now. The way he

5 5/PB/F1/GS natural resources and talking with intense indicates that he


wilderness areas and reduce tries to impress anyone at dinner
the influence of political action with how he looks like has a lot of
committees." knowledge, smart, and how he cares
The table stares at me with the world, Even, he realize that
uncomfortably, even Stash, but anyone at dinner feel uncomfortable,
I'm on a roll.” (17-18) but he seems doesn’t even care and
feel enjoy, this is just the way that
Bateman feels superior among other.

117
"I pull my Armani shirt up and Impersonal Sexual After the other back from the dinner,
Behavior
place Bateman stay in Evelyn’s house,
her hand on my torso, wanting then he had sex with her. In this sex
her to feel how rock-hard, how scene Bateman describe that he take
halved my control of Evelyn’s body. Bateman
stomach is, and I flex the pull his shirt and take her hand on his
muscles, grateful it's light in the six pack-stomach, this is the way
6 6/PB/NR/ISX
room so she can see how he want Evelyn know how good
how bronzed and defined my the shape of Bateman’s body. This
abdomen has become" (p.27) acts indicates that Bateman just
manipulate her by take full control
for his desire, simply He just seeing
girl for a tool to manifest all of his
impulsivity and desire.
“I masturbate, thinking about Impersonal sexual After dinner party and even sex with
behavior
first Evelyn, then Courtney, Evelyn, after he arrive at his

7 7/PB/NR/ISX then Vanden and then Evelyn apartment, Bateman masturbate with
again, but right before I come – imagine has sex with not just one
a weak orgasm – about a near- girl. His imagination about sex with

118
naked model in a halter top I more than one girl, it looks like he is
saw today in a Calvin Klein just cares with physicall connection
advertisement.” (p.28) to the girls, not emotionally
connection.
“In the early light of a May Grandiose of Self- This is the scene where Bateman
worth
dawn this is what the living tells about his morning activity. He
room of my apartment looks describe about his expensive
like: Over the white marble and branded items. From this scene, it
granite gas-log fireplace hangs indicates that he satisfied and proud
an original David Onica... A of his financial power over luxurious
8 8/PB/F1/GS
black-dotted beige and white expensive branded items and to
Maud Sienna carpet covers show that he has high social status.
most of the floor. One wall is
hidden by four chests of
immense bleached mahogany
drawers” (p.29)

119
After I change into Ralph Grandiose of Self- This quote shows Bateman’s
worth
Lauren monogrammed boxer activities in the morning. In the early
shorts and a Fair Isle sweater morning he always does some
and slide into silk polka-dot treatment to his body before his take
Enrico Hidolin slippers I tie a shower and always use high quality
plastic ice pack around my face product of shampoo and soap. The
and commence with the way how he describe every the
morning's stretching grooming product with all of the
exercises... Then apply an anti- contents indicates that he know and
9 9/PB/F1/GS
aging eye balm (Baume Des he cares with what he does, it means,
Yeux) followed by a final he obsess and always prioritize about
moisturizing "protective" his physical appearance, because he
lotion. (P.30) only used all of the high product that
he believe it will make him more
value. This is the evidence of
grandiose of self-worth from
Bateman.

120
“...I'm wearing a lightweight Grandiose of Self- In this scene Patrick hangout with his
worth
linen suit with pleated trousers, friends in a bar, after arrive at the bar
a cotton shirt, a dotted silk tie, Bateman start to looking all of the
all by Valentino Couture, and cloths that his friends wear in detail
perforated cap-toe leather then he also describes all of what he
shoes by Allen Edmonds... wears. From this act, it indicates that
McDermott is wearing a he is try to make comparisons how
10 10/PB/F1/GS
woven-linen suit with pleated good his style or appearance with
trousers, a button-down cotton others, also it show how he proud
and linen shirt by Basile, a silk with what he wear because it will
tie by Joseph Abboud and makes him has high status and how
ostrich loafers from Susan he looks cares with his appearance.
Bennis Warren Edwards.”
(p.34)
"She let you fuck her without a Impersonal sexual This is the scene where Bateman and
behavior
condom?" one of us asks... No his friends talk in restaurant. They

11 11/PB/NR/IMS one says anything but we are all are talking about girl. This is how
thinking the same thought: Bateman and his friends seeing and
Never pick up a Vassar girl. treat woman. The way Bateman and

121
"What you need is a chick from his friends called woman as chick it
Camden," Van Patten says, indicates that Bateman objectifies
after recovering from women and views them purely as
McDermott's statement. sexual objects to be used for his own
"Oh great," I say. "Some chick gratification. He does not view them
who thinks it's okay to fuck her as individuals with their own desires,
brother." "Yeah, but they think feelings, or needs.
AIDS is a new band from
England," Price points
out.(p.37-38)
“It's really impossible to Impulsivity This is the scene where Bateman
get a reservation at Pastels and with his friend having lunch in a
I think Van Patter, myself, even restaurant. In the beginning narration
Price, are impressed by, maybe describes how Bateman feels

12 12/PB/F2/IMS even envious of, McDermott's jealously with McDermott because


prowess in securing a table... this lunch time he and the others
my panic so great I almost can’t get reservation at any
ripped Zagat in two – the restaurant. Bateman admit
impressed by McDermott because

122
consensus seemed to the fact that he and the others cannot
emerge.(p.45) get a reservation at Pastel. Before
even they argued which in the end
made Bateman panic and almost tore
up the reservation book (Zagat). The
way his emotion response the
situation indicates that he cant’t
control his impulses. He driven by
frustated through this situation.
“I'm looking at Van Patten's Impulsivity This is the scene where Bateman and
card and then at mine and his friends in a restaurant, in this
cannot believe that Price scene all of them showing their
actually likes Van Patten's business card. At first Bateman show
better. Dizzy, I sip my drink off of his card with proudly, but he
13 13/ PB/F2/IMS
then take a deep breath. "But becomes fixated on Van Patten’s
wait," Price says. "You ain't card, and he admit it that his card
seen nothin' yet…" He pulls his better than him. After, he even shock
out of an inside coat pocket and that Price’s card more better than
slowly, dramatically turns it him and Van Pattern’s card, make

123
over for our inspection and Bateman more frustrated and being
says, "Mine." envy through rival’s card. This is
Even I have to admit it's indicates that Bateman’s inability to
magnificent.(p.51) control his impulsivity because he is
driven by his emotions.
“...Dizzy, I sip my drink then Shallow affect This is the scene where Bateman and
take a deep breath. "But wait," his friends in a restaurant, in this
Price says. "You ain't seen scene all of them showing their
nothin' yet…" He pulls his out business card. At first Bateman show
of an inside coat pocket and off of his card with proudly, but he
slowly, dramatically turns it becomes fixated on Van Patten’s
over for our inspection and card and Price’s card and he admit it
14 14/PB/F1/SA
says, "Mine." Even I have to that their card better than him, make
admit it's magnificent. Bateman consumed with envy and
Suddenly the restaurant seems jealousy. Even makes him feel
far away, hushed, the noise totally meaningless and feels like
distant, a meaningless hallucination because of his
hum, compared to this card, overthinking about that business
and we all hear Price's words: card. It indicates that he is

124
"Raised lettering, pale nimbus dramatically his feeling just because
white…(p.51) his envious about business card.

"..No one wants the fucking red Impulsivity The scene where Bateman shout at
snapper pizza! A pizza should McDormatt because he hasn't
be yeasty and slightly bready stopped asking who wants pizza,
and have a cheesy crust! The because Bateman's current mood is
crusts here are too fucking thin filled with frustration and jealousy
because the shithead chef who because of the business card,
cooks here overbakes Bateman shout loudly explaining
everything! The pizza is dried that no one wants to order pizza at
15 15/PB/F2/IMS
out and brittle!" this restaurant, because he thinks the
Red-faced, I slam my Bellini pizza here is over baked.
down on the table and when I Unknowingly right when he shouted,
look up our appetizers have a maid came and was get a shock
arrived. A hardbody waitress showing scared expression when
stands looking down at me with Bateman shouting angrily. From this
this strange, glazed expression. action, it is clear that this is
I wipe a hand over my face, Bateman's inability to control his

125
genially smiling up at her. She impulses; he acts because he is
stands there looking at me as controlled by his frustration.
if I were some kind of monster –
she actually looks scared.(p.53)
"..No one wants the fucking red Poor Behavior Bateman shout loudly explaining
Control
snapper pizza! A pizza should about the pizza even a maid was get
be yeasty and slightly bready a shock showing scared expression
and have a cheesy crust! The when Bateman shouting angrily.
crusts here are too fucking thin Because of his inability to control his
because the shithead chef who impulses, and driven by his
cooks here overbakes emotions, he acts unconsciously and

16 16/PB/F2/PBC everything! The pizza is dried without thinking about the


out and brittle!" conditions around him, which may
Red-faced, I slam my Bellini be bad for himself and those around
down on the table and when I him.
look up our appetizers have
arrived. A hardbody waitress
stands looking down at me with
this strange, glazed expression.

126
I wipe a hand over my face,
genially smiling up at her. She
stands there looking at me as
if I were some kind of monster –
she actually looks scared.(p.53)
"Loutish and inconsiderate Manipulation for After he shout loudly about pizza
Personal Gain
patrons or tourists who are and make the maid scared, he told
inevitably going to complain and explain to her that he and his
about our innocuous little friends are good customer and just
habit… So" – I press what I want to relax. Even Bateman give
hope is fifty into a small-boned her money for make a sure, because
hand – "if you could make sure a few moment ago he acts rude, and
17 17/PB/F1/MNP
we aren't bothered while we do, he doesn’t want kicked, it will be a
we would gratefully appreciate shame for him and them. His action
it." I rub the hand, closing it by giving money through the maid,
into a fist over the bill. indicates that he, by using of his
"And if anyone complains, power of financial didn’t really want
well…" I pause, then warn to take responsibility, he just
menacingly, "Kick 'em out." manipulate her using his money to

127
She nods mutely and backs make a sure and guarantee that he
away with this dazed, confused and his friend not kicked by his bad
look on her face.(p.54) attitude.

"..She is hot, " Van Patten says, Impersonal Sexual Scene where Bateman and his
Behavior
ignoring his scallop sausage. friends notice hot girls in next their
"Hardbody." McDermott nods table, four hot babes presence's in
in agreement. "Definitely." this restaurant catches theirs
"I'm not impressed," Price attention. They said that the girls are
sniffs. "Look at her knees." hot, but while one of them stands,
While the hardbody stands Bateman notice that the size of her

18 18/PB/NR/ISX there we check her out, and knees is different, bigger than one.
though her knees do support Seeing this, Bateman change his
long, tan legs, I can't help mind totaly uninterested. From his
noticing that one knee is, acts, it is indicates that Bateman just
admittedly, bigger than the want girl who perfected body. He
other one. The left knee is can’t deal with such as small things
knobbier, almost imperceptibly that looks like imperfect, because he
thicker than the right knee and always obsess with physical

128
this unnoticeable flaw now appearance and he believe that
seems overwhelming and we all perfect girl; hot, hardbody, has big
lose interest. (p.55) tits, has ass will be nice to him. This
is how Bateman look through
woman.
Outside Pastels a different bum Poor Behavior After they finished and leave the
Control
sits in the street, with a sign that Pastel, they met with a homeless that
says something completely ask them for some help. But, instead
illegible. He gently asks us for help a bum, Bateman said something
some change and then, more bad, he even made joking and made
hopefully, for some food. fun about the bum with his friend.
19 19/PB/F2/PBC
"That dude needs a facial real His behavior idicates that he has
bad," I say. poor behavior control.
"Hey McDermott," Price
cackles. "Throw him your tie."
"Oh shit. What's that gonna get
him?" I ask, staring at the bum.

129
"Appetizers at Jams." Van
Patten laughs. He gives me
high-five.(p.59)

Outside Pastels a different bum Lack of Empathy After they finished and leave the
sits in the street, with a sign that Pastel, they met with a homeless that
says something completely ask them for some help. But, instead
illegible. He gently asks us for help a bum, Bateman said something
some change and then, more bad, he even made joking and made
hopefully, for some food. fun about the bum with his friend. He
"That dude needs a facial real even doesn’t care and thinking about

20 20/PB/F1/LOE bad," I say. his action through the homless’s


"Hey McDermott," Price felling, his inability to understand
cackles. "Throw him your tie." about people around him and his
"Oh shit. What's that gonna get behavior indicates that he has lack of
him?" I ask, staring at the bum. empathy.
"Appetizers at Jams." Van
Patten laughs. He gives me
high-five.(p.59)

130
" I take two of the drink tickets Grandiose of Self- The scene where Bateman is
worth
from Price and try to get him a ordering drinks at a bar while at a
Finlandia on the rocks which discotheque called Tunnel. Female
they don't have, the hardbody bartender, sexy, definitely hardbody,
behind the bar informs and talks to him like a bitchly.
mebitchily, but she's got a rad Because of her appearance, he
body and is so hot-looking that wanted to give her a big tip. This
21 21/PB/F1/GS
I will leave her a big tip action indicates that he seems unable
because of this." (p.65) to control what he does, willing to
spend a lot of money just because he
feels passionately satisfied. This is
proof that he is objectify the women,
wasting money just for sheer
passion.
"No, fuck yourself," Price Stimulation Seeking the scene where Bateman and Price
screams back, trying to are doings drugs. He and Price

22 22/PB/F2/SS scramble over the aluminum bought a gram of methamphetamine


divider... then quietly he says, in a discotheque. Bateman took
drugs to get the adrenaline rush that

131
without opening his eyes, might otherwise stimulate him. The
"Okay. Let's do it." sentence that he said, "that's the
"That's the spirit," I say. We spirit" indicates that he is looking
take turns digging our forward to the sensation of enjoying
respective cards into the the drug.
envelope until what we can't get
with the cards we press our
fingers into and snort or lick off
the tips then rub into our
gums.(p.68)
I'm feeling good and I shout out Impulsivity After he took drugs, he returned to
to her, "Hey, don't you go to the bar and try flirt with the girl
NYU?"She shakes her head, again, but when Bateman spoke to
unsmiling. "Hunter?" I shout. her, she didn't respond as he

23 23/PB/F2/IMS She shakes her head again. Not expected, just kept quiet. Moreover,
Hunter. "Columbia?" I shout – he had to pay for his drink because
though that's a joke. the ticket he was holding was no
She continues to concentrate on longer valid. He then suddenly
the bottle of Stoli. I decide not shouted at the girl that he was going

132
to continue the conversation... to kill her and play with her blood
"You are a fucking ugly bitch I and then left without tipping her.
want to stab to death and play From this act, he didn't think long
around with your blood," but about his action and spoke harshly
I'm smiling. I leave the cunt no easily without thinking about what
tip(p.69) effect would occur around him.
I'm feeling good and I shout out Poor Behavior From this action, he did not think
Control.
to her, "Hey, don't you go to long about his actions and spoke
NYU?"She shakes her head, harshly easily without thinking
unsmiling. "Hunter?" I shout. about what effect would occur
She shakes her head again. Not around him. Indicates, because his
Hunter. "Columbia?" I shout – inability to control what he think and

24 24/PB/F2/PBC though that's a joke. emotions, he was driven by his


She continues to concentrate on emotions which caused him to act
the bottle of Stoli. I decide not badly by speaking harshly.
to continue the conversation...
"You are a fucking ugly bitch I
want to stab to death and play
around with your blood," but

133
I'm smiling. I leave the cunt no
tip(p.69)

“... I check myself in the mirror Grandiose of self- This is the scene where Bateman
worth
before entering the gym and, spend his time in Health Club, when
dissatisfied, go back to my he arrives at that place, Bateman
briefcase for some mousse to being dissatisfied with his
slick my hair back and then I appearance. So Bateman tidied his
use a moisturizer and, for a hair and used moisturizer to improve
small blemish I notice under my his appearance. The way he cares
25 25/PB/F1/GS
lower lip, a dab of Clinique about his appearance shows that he
Touch-Stick. Satisfied, I turn always puts his physical appearance
the Walkman on, the volume up, first. From this action, Bateman
and leave the locker thinks and feels with all he does to
room.”(p.79) maintain his image as an attractive
man.

“I should probably be Grandiose of self- The text describe that Bateman skip
26 26//PB/F1/GS worth
stretching first but if I do that the stretching before he start

134
I'll have to wait in line – exercise. He skipped the stretching
already some faggot is behind because there are a few people that
me, probably checking out my Bateman doesn’t want to let them
back, ass, leg seeing his body, not only that, even
muscles. No hardbodies at the he thought disrespectful to all of
gym today. Only faggots from those people near with him. This is
the West Side, probably indicates that he feels superior and
unemployed actors, waiters by just seeing them as inferior, no have
night, and Muldwyn Butner of value, no matches with him.
Sachs, who I went to Exeter
with,...(p.80)
“I take a quick hot shower and Stimulation seeking After finished exercises at Healt
then head to the video store Club, he quickly leave because he
where I return two tapes I want to return two tapes of videos.
rented on Monday, She-Male From the title of his videos that he
27 27/PB/F2/SS
Reformatory and Body Double, rent, all of them is disturbing videos.
but I rerent Body Double He even said that actually he want to
because I want to watch it masturbate because the scene that
again tonight even though I shows a girl getting death by drilled.

135
know I won't have enough time From this sentence. It indicates that
to masturbate over the scene Bateman really enjoyed and feels
where the woman is getting satisfaction about his fantasized of
drilled to death by a power drill something that disturbing.
since I have a date with
Courtney at seven-thirty at
Café Luxembourg.”(p.81)

"Don't worry. I'll just go to Pathology lying This is the scene where Bateman is
Dorsia alone then. It's okay."... talking to Patricia on the phone about
"You have reservations there? I where they should go on the date.
mean for us?" Patricia asks Bateman to watch a
"Yes" I say, "Eight-thirty," concert, but Bateman refused and

28 28/PB/F1/PL "Well…" She emits a little said that he didn't like live concerts.
laugh and then, faltering, "It Patricia was a little pushy, but
was… well, what I mean is, I've Bateman still didn't want to go to the
seen them. I just wanted you to concert, instead of agreeing to it,
see them." Bateman even lied that he was going
to a restaurant called Dorsia that he

136
"Listen. What are you doing?" I had got reservation before, even
ask. "If you're not coming I though in reality he had not booked
have to call the place at all. Bateman's actions
someone else. Do you have prove that Bateman was just trying to
Emily Hamilton's number?" amaze Patricia simply not wanting to
"Oh now now, Patrick, don't go to the concert, or maybe he was
be… rash." (p.86-87) lying to treat her sweetly just to
manipulate Patricia.
"Don't worry. I'll just go to Poor Behavior Bateman lied that he was going to a
Control.
Dorsia alone then. It's okay."... restaurant called Dorsia that he had
"You have reservations there? I ordered before, but the truth he had
mean for us?" not booked at all. Even after lying to
"Yes" I say, "Eight-thirty," Patricia, and hearing Patricia's long-
29 29/PB/F2/PBC
"Well…" She emits a little winded answers, he even said he will
laugh and then, faltering, "It going on a date with someone else
was… well, what I mean is, I've and asked her for another woman's
seen them. I just wanted you to number. From his acts, that is the
see them." proof of his inability to read the

137
"Listen. What are you doing?" I situation and not think about how
ask. "If you're not coming I Patricia was feeling.
have to call
someone else. Do you have
Emily Hamilton's number?"
"Oh now now, Patrick, don't
be… rash." (p.86-87)
“On my way into the Chinese Lack of Empathy This is the scene where Bateman go
cleaners I brush past a crying to Dry Cleansers. Before he enter the
bum, an old man, forty or fifty, place, he seeing a blind homeless.
fat and grizzled, and just as I'm With unclear motive he hurt that
opening the door I notice, to top homeless by step his foot. From his
it off, that he's also blind and I acts, he doesn’t have any sympathy,
30 30/PB/F1/LOE
step on his foot, which is and didn’t even thinking with the
actually a stump, causing him bum feelings, and no sign of any
to drop his cup, scattering guilt at all. This is the evidence that
change all over the sidewalk. he has no empathy at all.
Did I do this on purpose? What
do you think? Or did I do this

138
accidentally?(p.93)

“On my way into the Chinese Lack of Remorse The scene where Bateman going to
cleaners I brush past a crying Chinese cleaners, in the side walk
bum, an old man, forty or fifty, there is a blind bum. With unclear
fat and grizzled, and just as I'm motive he hurt that homeless by step
opening the door I notice, to top his foot, and causing drop his cup,
it off, that he's also blind and I scattering over sidewalk. He did

31 31/PB/F1/LOR step on his foot, which is without thinking about his action
actually a stump, causing him through the bum and his feelings,
to drop his cup, scattering and there is no sign of him that show
change all over the sidewalk. any guilt. This is the evidence that he
Did I do this on purpose? What has poor behavior control.
do you think? Or did I do this
accidentally?(p.93)
"Two things," I say, talking Impulsivity The scene where Bateman argued

32 32/PB/F2/IMS over her. "One. You can't with an old Chinese woman because
bleach a Soprani. Out of the the sheet he carries is covered in

139
question. Two" – and then blood and the woman continues to
louder, still over her – "two, I speak in Chinese that Bateman does
can only get these sheets in not understand what she is saying at
Santa Fe. These are very all. Here Bateman felt so frustrated
expensive sheets and I really and shout in the laundry room saying
need them clean… . " But she's that he would kill her if she keep
still talking and I'm nodding as talking without wanting to stop,
if I understand her gibberish, which made the old woman shocked
then I break into a smile and and scared. His act of said harshly to
lean right into her face. "If-you- the old woman indicated his inability
don'tshut-your-fucking-mouth- to act without thinking about the
I-will-kill-you-are-you- consequences of his actions.
understanding-me?” The
Chinese woman's panicked
jabbering speeds up
incoherently, her eyes still
wide....” (p.94)

140
"Two things," I say, talking Poor Behavior Bateman screamed right in the old
Control
over her. "One. You can't woman's face and said that he would
bleach a Soprani. Out of the kill her if she kept talking without
question. Two" – and then stopping. His action of screaming to
louder, still over her – "two, I kill the old woman indicated that he
can only get these sheets in was unable to control his impulses,
Santa Fe. These are very so he acted aggressively which was
expensive sheets and I really controlled by his inability to control
need them clean… . " But she's his emotions.

33 33/PB/F2/PBC still talking and I'm nodding as


if I understand her gibberish,
then I break into a smile and
lean right into her face. "If-you-
don'tshut-your-fucking-mouth-
I-will-kill-you-are-you-
understanding-me?” The
Chinese woman's panicked
jabbering speeds up
incoherently, her eyes still

141
wide....” (p.94)

"Yeah, well, oh boy, listen, I've Manipulation for When Bateman argued with old
personal gain
got to go." I pretend to spot an Chinese women, suddenly a woman
oncoming cab across the street entered and say hello to Bateman.
through the glass door and, She asks about the sheet, but
faking gratitude, tell her, Bateman lied and said that it just
"Thank you, uh… cranberry syrup. Then Bateman take
Samantha."(p.96) this opportunity to use the girl to deal

34 34/PB/F1/MNP with Chinese women since she looks


like understand what Chinese
women said, and leave quickly. Even
he doesn’t even know her name, he
just calls her with random name,
Samanta, and he just pretends faking
gratitude to her. He just focuses on
his business. This is indicates that

142
Bateman just used her for what he
wants.

"Well, my theory's always Impersonal sexual The scene where Bateman talks
relationship
been," I start, "men are only about women with his friends.
here to procreate, to carry on Bateman thinks that men only have a
the species, you know?" duty to continue or give offspring,
They both nod. and only way to do that must be
"And so the only way to do because of a sexy woman, money or
that," I continue, choosing because of fame. Bateman's way of
35 35/PB/NR/ISX
words carefully, "is… to thinking proves that he only sees
get turned on by a little women who have value, and only
hardbody, but sometimes sees them as sexual objects
money or fame"(p.104) regardless of how they feel. This is
an attitude that he disrespectful other
people, especially women without
any emotional connection.
“I begin, " 'When I see a pretty Superficial charm In this quote Bateman talking about
36 36/PB/F1/SC girl walking down the street I girl with his friends, he used quote

143
think two things. One part of me from Ed Gein, a serial killer, about
wants to take her out and talk to girl, and he tells to his friends that
her and be real nice and sweet when he meets a beautiful woman he
and treat her right.' " I stop, will seduce her with sweet treats to
finish my J&B in one swallow” take her out. The way he used the Ed
(p.105) Gein qoutes indicates to prove about
the way he thinks, this is how
Bateman used to deal with women.
Because from that qoute Bateman
knows very well how to seduce
women with sweet treats, and
manipulate them with his charm.

“...It turns out we haven't seen Manipulation for Bateman is having dinner with
Personal Gain
the show but I don't want to be Courtney and friends. The topic they
tacky enough to bringup the are talking about is an art artist,
37 37/PB/F1/MNP
fact I own one, so I lightly kick namely David Onica. Bateman
Courtney under the table. This wanted to show that he had one of his
raises herout of the lithium- paintings, but he didn't want to show

144
induced stupor and she says off in a tacky way by mentioning it
robotically, "Patrick owns an straight away, he kicked Courtney in
Onica. He really does." order to break the air with start
I smile, pleased; sip my J&B. talking about him owning one of
"Oh that's fantastic, Patrick," Onica's paintings. His action of
Anne says. "Really? An kicking Courtney's leg shows that he
Onica?" Scott asks. "Isn't he is using Courtney for his purpose,
quite expensive?"(p.112) and makes her friends know that
Bateman has a painting of Onica
which is famous for being expensive.
“...It turns out we haven't seen Grandiose of Self- Bateman wanted to show that he had
worth
the show but I don't want to be one of Onica’s paintings, but he
tacky enough to bringup the didn't want to show off in a tacky
fact I own one, so I lightly kick way, he kicked Courtney in order to

38 38/PB/F1/GS Courtney under the table. This break the air with start talking about
raises herout of the lithium- him owning one of Onica's
induced stupor and she says paintings. His action of kicking
robotically, "Patrick owns an Courtney's leg shows that he is
Onica. He really does." manipulate her by using Courtney

145
I smile, pleased; sip my J&B. for his purpose, even he corrected a
"Oh that's fantastic, Patrick," mistake that she said about the price
Anne says. "Really? An of the painting that Courtney said at
Onica?" Scott asks. "Isn't he first.
quite expensive?"(p.112) The truth of his action is made her
friends know and impress that
Bateman has a painting of Onica
which is famous for being expensive.
The way how he show about his
superiority to people around him.
She stares at me, Irresponsibility The scene where Bateman is in the
uncomprehending, then, office, Jean, his assistant tells that
actually looking crestfallen, someone has invited Bateman to
says, "Ted Madison called and meet and talk about the business

39 39/PB/F2/IRS so did James Baker. They want agenda. But Bateman told her to did
to meet you at Fluties at six." as usual, which is to refuse.
I sigh, glaring at her. "Well, From this action, Bateman often
what should you do?" refuse meeting agendas, it indicates
that Bateman is actually very lazy to

146
She laughs nervously, standing work, he also often comes to the
there, her eyes wide. "I'm not office late and leaves the office early
sure." “Jean." I stand up to and even he prefers to spend his time
lead her out of the office. and have fun with his business
"What… do . . you… say?" friends. This is proof that Bateman is
It takes her a little while but not responsible for his work.
finally, frightened, she guesses,
"Just… say… no?" "Just…
say… no." I nod, pushing her
out and slamming the door. –
(p.120)
“Before leaving my office for Grandiose of Self- This quote shows Bateman
worth
the meeting I take two Valium, preparing for his performance to the
wash them down with a Perrier best of his ability. The way he cares
and then use a scruffing about his appearance shows that he
40 40/PB/F1/GS
cleanser on my face with always puts his physical appearance
premoistened cotton balls, first. From this action, Bateman
afterwards applying a thinks and feels with everything he
moisturizer... My complexion is does to look great.

147
still excellent. Three drops of
Visine clear the eyes. An ice
pack tightens the skin. All it
comes down to is: I feel like shit
but look great.(p.121)
“He starts rattling on about a Stimulationn seeking The quote above shows that
restaurant in Phoenix, Bateman consumes valium, and he
Propheteers, that I'm actually believes that he can control his
interested in hearing about but emotions. This shows that Bateman

41 41/PB/F2/SS not from Luis Carruthers, yet is addicted to drugs, and feel a sense
I'm on ten milligrams of Valium of uphoria.
and for that reason I can
manage” (p.121)

"What do you think of the pizza Poor Behavior This is a scene where Bateman meets
Control
at Pastels now, Bateman?" he his business friends at a restaurant

42 42/PB/F2/PBC asks smugly. for lunch. at this restaurant he met


"Well," I say, choosing my McDermott who was carrying a
words carefully. "I think I have magazine. Bateman felt that

148
to go back and retaste the McDermott was acting strangely
pizza… ." I'm saying this towards him and asked him if there
through gritted teeth. "I'm just was something wrong with him.
suggesting that the last time I McDermott finally handed Bateman
was there the pizza was…" the magazine he had brought and
"Brittle?" McDermott offers. pointed to an article in which the
"Yeah." I shrug. "Brittle." article wrote a review that the person
"Uh-huh." McDermott smiles, Bateman admires, Donald Trump,
triumphant.... "But I'm not saying that the Pizza at Pastels is the
apologizing," I warn best in Manhattan. Seeing this news
McDermott." (p.124-125) Bateman became angry and found it
difficult to admit it, because of the
incident Bateman got angry and
shouted at McDermott at Pastels
yesterday solely because Bateman
could not control his emotions
caused by his jealousy of his friends'
business cards. after reading the
article, Bateman got annoyed at

149
McDermott and said what was the
point of all this and even made
excuses to McDermott that the last
time he came the pizza he ordered
was not good. Bateman doesn't even
want to apologize to him. this shows
Bateman's inability to control his
actions, because he has high self-
esteem he does not want to admit his
mistakes.
"Evelyn comes in on the call Pathology lying This is the scene where Bateman is
waiting of my third line and I talking on 3 phones at the same time.
wasn't going to take it, but since First he made an appointment with
I'm holding on the second line Courtney for dinner tonight, then the

43 43/PB/F1/PL to find out if Bullock, the maître second he used to make reservations
d' at the new Davis François at a restaurant, and right the same
restaurant on Central Park time then Evelyn call that what he
South, has any cancellations thought was from a dry cleaner's call.
for tonight so Courtney Bateman lied to Evelyn and tells to

150
(holding on the first line) and I wait because he was talking to
might have dinner, I pick it up someone, then told Courtney he got
in the hope that it's my dry call from Paul and told her to see him
cleaners. But no, it's Evelyn tonight. From this scene, it's clear
and though it really isn't fair to enough that Bateman easily lied to
Courtney, I take her call. I tell the two of them, he lied to avoid it
Evelyn I'm on the other line because he didn't want Evelyn and
with my private trainer. I then Courtney know that he right now on
tell Courtney I have to take the same call. This indicates that
Paul Owen's call and that I'll Bateman has a tendency to lie easily
see her at Turtles at eight and for some reason for his own sake.
then I cut myself off from
Bullock, the maître d'."(p. 133)
"Evelyn comes in on the call Lack of Empathy Bateman easily lied to the two of
waiting of my third line and I them, its look like natural response.
wasn't going to take it, but since The way he easily makes reason to
44 44/PB/F1/LOE
I'm holding on the second line lie for two of them indicates that he
to find out if Bullock, the maître actually doesn't thinking about both
d' at the new Davis François of their feelings. This is how

151
restaurant on Central Park Bateman seeing about woman,
South, has any cancellations seeing them as object that can be
for tonight so Courtney used for own his sake than seeing
(holding on the first line) and I them as individual that have feeling.
might have dinner, I pick it up
in the hope that it's my dry
cleaners. But no, it's Evelyn
and though it really isn't fair to
Courtney, I take her call. I tell
Evelyn I'm on the other line
with my private trainer. I then
tell Courtney I have to take
Paul Owen's call and that I'll
see her at Turtles at eight and
then I cut myself off from
Bullock, the maître d'."(p. 133)

152
"She demands that we have Pathology lying This is the scene where Evelyn calls
dinner tonight, and then says, Bateman for dinner tonight, she want
before I can make up a meet with Bateman to change her
plausible lie, an acceptable. mood to get well since she got shock
excuse, "Where were you last and feels so scared yesterday
night, Patrick?" I pause. "Why? because her neighbor was death. She
Where were you?" I ask, while ask Bateman where was he last
guzzling from a liter of Evian, night, and again Bateman doesn't
still slightly sweaty from this give direct answer, at first he tried to
45 45/PB/F1/PL
afternoon's workout... change the conversation before he
"Because your neighbor's head lying that he was spend his time at
was in my freezer." I yawn, videotapes store. The truth, he tells
stretching. "Listen. Dinner? with muttered naturally so Evelyn
Where? Can you hear seems doesn't hear or maybe she is
me?"(p.133-134) doesn't notice, that neighbor's head
was in his freezer or what the means
he is the one who killed her
neighbor.

153
"What a dork," Courtney Pathology Lying This is the scene where Bateman at
whispers sadly to herself. dance party with his friends, Luis
"Listen, I'm leaving," I say, and Courtney. From the text, at first
finishing the champagne. "Why Bateman flirting to Courtney and
don't you go dance with the… said that she is look voluptuous
receptacle tip?"... "Why are tonight, but suddenly with unclear
you so concerned?" "Because reason Bateman feels so sensitive
I'd like to know," she says. with Courtney. He decided to leave
"You're not going to Evelyn's, the party, but Courtney tries to hold
46 46/PB/F1/PL
are you?" him and asking why and where he
"Maybe," I lie. "Patrick," she go, Bateman answer with lying. The
says. "Don't leave me here. I truth is he just wants to avoid
don't want you to go."(p. 144) Courtney. The way he lies to
Courtney that maybe he want go to
Evelyn place is the evidence of he
deliberately makes she jealous, that
indicates he didn't care about Evelyn
feelings.

154
...“Tm hungry,” he whispers. Lack of Empathy From this dialogue, its show that
“I know that, I know that,” I Bateman talk with homeless, at first
say. Bateman seems wants to help him.
‘Jeez, you’re like a broken The homeless man seems to be
record. I’m trying to help happy; he was just desperate and
you…” My impatience rises. needed the money to survive.
“I’m hungry,” he repeats. But, instead help homeless man,
“Listen. Do you think it’s fair to Bateman just intimidating him with
47 47/PB/F1/LOE
take money from people who do asking him like is it fair to take
have jobs? Who do work?” His money from people who have jobs.
face crumples and he gasps, his This scene indicates that the truth is,
voice raspy, “What am I gonna Bateman doesn’t even care with the
do?” “Listen,” I say.”(p.147) bum, he just seeing the homeless
man as a lazy bum who chose to be
where he is. Totally seeing him as
object without meaning.

155
...“Tm hungry,” he whispers. Impulsivity Bateman talk with homeless in
“I know that, I know that,” I corner of the street, and want to help
say. him, but Bateman not just
‘Jeez, you’re like a broken intimidating him with asking him
record. I’m trying to help like it’s fair to take money from
you…” My impatience rises. people who have jobs, but he also
“I’m hungry,” he repeats. hurt him even Bateman kills him. It
“Listen. Do you think it’s fair to indicates that Bateman acts without
48 48/PB/F2/IMS
take money from people who do regard for the consequences of his
have jobs? Who do work?” His action even though in public and
face crumples and he gasps, his without any clear motive. It’s like
voice raspy, “What am I gonna Bateman just seeing the homeless
do?” “Listen,” I say. (p.147) man has no value in the society and
his life is worthless and nothing but
an expense.

156
"Three glazed jelly doughnuts Grandiose of Self- The moment when Bateman was
worth
and two steaming cups of extra- having breakfast and enjoying a TV
dark hot chocolate lay on the show, but he was disturbed by a
desk in front of him beside a slight crack that he noticed from his
copy of the Post opened to the painting. He met the doorman, and
comics and it struck me that I what he met was the new doorman
was infinitely better-looking, with same with his age. He
more successful and richer than spontaneous thought, compares

49 49/PB/F1/GS this poor bastard would ever be himself to him. Bateman feels he is
and so with a passing rush of no match for the doorman because he
sympathy I smiled and nodded is more handsome, successful and
a curt though not impolite good wealthy. Based on Bateman's
morning without lodging a actions, it can be concluded that he
complaint. "Oh really?" I find has inflated self-esteem. Sees
myself saying loudly, himself as superior than other.
completely uninterested, to
Armstrong."(p. 156)

157
"fuck… yourself… Armstrong, Grandiose of self- This scene also one of example of his
worth
I'm thinking while staring out grandiose of self-worth, while
the window at the gridlock and Amstrong keep long talking about
pacing bums on Church Street. Bahamas, Bateman just focus with
Appetizers arrive: sun-dried- his though about how annoyed this
tomato brioche for Armstrong. guy and seems not really cares about
Poblano chilies with an oniony his story. Bateman just really want to
50 50/PB/F1/GS
orange-purple marmalade on shut his mouth with show how
the side for me. I hope superior he is by pay all the bill, what
Armstrong doesn't want to pay he really means is he want to show
because I need to show the dim- off to Amstrong that the fact how he
witted bastard that I in fact do proud has platinum American
own a platinum American Express.
Express card."(p.157)
...I ask, "The food? How's the Shallow Affect This text describes how Bateman
food?" almost involuntarily, response about Amsttong's long

51 51/PB/F1/SA thinking about anything but. story about Bahamas. The way how
"Good question. As for dining Bateman response Amsytong's story
out, the Caribbean has become Indicates that he didn't really listen

158
more attractive... "How about to what he was talking about, he just
sightseeing?" I ask faking his reply by asking random as
disinterestedly, concentrating naturally so Amstrong doesn't
on the blackened chilies..."(p. notice, that the truth Bateman really
157) doesn't even care or uninterested
with his story, instead he just really
irritated. This is the evidence that his
inability to response the situation
and can't connected emotionally to
the others.
"My life is a living hell," I Impulsivity While listening Amstrong's long
mention off the cuff, while story about Bahamas, Bateman
casually moving leeks around realize that the end of the story wills
on my plate, which by the way never coming. Bateman wonder and

52 52/PB/F2/IMS is a porcelain triangle. "And even imagine slice his own wrist and
there are many more people I, covered Amstrong’s head with the
uh, want to… want to, well, I blood that spurt from his hand, and
guess murder." I say this even he thought after he left this
emphasizing the last word, place and spend the time in outside

159
staring straight into this restaurant and back to this
Armstrong's face(p. 158) restaurant again he will found that
Amstrong will still talking about
Bahamas. Then, Bateman finally
said that he feels like living in hell
and really want to kill someone, the
way he emphasizing the word of
murder and point out that word to
Armstrong's face is what he really
thinking. This is indicates that he
acts without thinking; This is
evidence of an inability to control his
impulses.
"My life is a living hell," I Poor Bahavior While listening Amstrong's long
Control
mention off the cuff, while story about Bahamas, Bateman
casually moving leeks around realize that the end of the story wills
53 53/PB/F2/PBC
on my plate, which by the way never coming. Then, Bateman
is a porcelain triangle. "And finally shout that he really wanna kill
there are many more people I, someone, the way he emphasizing

160
uh, want to… want to, well, I the word of murder and point out that
guess murder." I say this word to Armstrong's face is what he
emphasizing the last word, really thinking. He driven by his
staring straight into emotions and consumed with
Armstrong's face(p. 158) frustrated, this incident indicates that
because of his inability to control his
impulses, causing him to be unable
to control his emotions and actions,
which shows a lack of ability to
consider the long-term consequences
of his actions.
“Carruthers keeps telling me Grandiose of Self- This is the scene that Bateman with
worth
how nice I look and Evelyn and the other went to live
complimenting my suit. concert. The quote shows Bateman
Evelyn and I are by far the best- feels that he and Evelyn are the best-
54 54/PB/F1/GS
dressed couple. I'm wearing a dressed couple than the others
lamb's wool...(p.160) couple. From Bateman's statement, it
can be seen that he has a narcissistic
nature because he likes to be

161
complimented by other people. It is
indicate that Bateman feels above of
the other, and feel proud if other
people admired impress by his
appearance.
"I keep watching Luis and Shallow Affect This is the scene where Bateman
whenever he looks over at our with his friends have lunch in
table I tip my head back and restaurant. While in talking with his
laugh even if what Van Patten friends, Bateman notice Luis, who a
or McDermott's saying isn't lover of Courtney also having lunch
particularly funny, which is in this restaurant. Luis presence's in
practically always. I've this restaurant catches Bateman's
55 55/PB/F1/SA
perfected my fake response to a attention, just when his friends were
degree where it's so natural- busy talking, Bateman didn't really
sounding that no one listen to what they were talking
notices"(p. 175) about, he just faking his reply,
instead his mind was distracted by
the presence of Luis sitting not far
from their table. From the way of his

162
interaction with his friends indicated
that he appears to have little genuine
through their lives and emotions,
like they all not important and he just
responds to their conversations with
noncommittal or dismissive
comment. This is the evidence of
how Bateman disconnected
emotionally around him.
"Would Courtney like me less if Impulsivity This is the scene where Bateman
Luis was dead? This is the want to catch up with Luis to kill
question I have to face, with no him, who is in the bathroom and
clear answer burning back describes his true thoughts on Luis
across my mind, as I make my and Courtney's relationship.
56 56/PB/F2/IMS
way slowly through the dining Bateman wonders if killing Luis will
room,.... But a physically make Courtney like himself, so
superior, near-perfect-looking Bateman can get Courtney, what he
shallow bitch, and that can really means is he can completely
override anything, except control and manipulate Courtney

163
maybe bad breath or yellow purely to fulfill his desires. From this
teeth, either of which is a real scene, there are indications that
dealbreaker..."(p.176) Bateman looks like cannot really
control what he thinks and he is
driven by intense emotions of
jealousy through Luis.
"Would Courtney like me less if Lack of Empathy Bateman is about to catch up with
Luis was dead? This is the Luis to kill him, who is in the
question I have to face, with no bathroom and describes his true
clear answer burning back thoughts on Luis and Courtney's
across my mind, as I make my relationship. Bateman wonders if
way slowly through the dining killing Luis can make Courtney like

57 57/PB/F1/LOE room,.... But a physically himself, so Bateman can get


superior, near-perfect-looking Courtney, what he really means is,
shallow bitch, and that can he can completely control and
override anything, except manipulate Courtney pury to fulfill
maybe bad breath or yellow his desires. Bateman seems to
teeth, either of which is a real disrespect Courtney by not thinking
dealbreaker..."(p.176) about her feelings at all, he even

164
asked himself and wondered if he
could not laugh or not when he saw
Courtney cry knowing that her lover,
Luis, had died because was killed by
him. From this scene, it indicates that
Bateman doesn't care at all about
other people's feelings, he just seeing
people like object and only wants to
take advantage of other people for
his own desires.
"Would Courtney like me less if Grandiose of Self- Bateman is about to catch up with
worth
Luis was dead? This is the Luis to kill him, Bateman feels
question I have to face, with no superior to Luis, that's why he
clear answer burning back wonder why a girl like Courtney date

58 58/PB/F1/GS across my mind, as I make my with such as Luis who inferior than
way slowly through the dining him. It's look like Bateman got little
room,.... But a physically bit envy and possessive emotionally
superior, near-perfect-looking of Courtney. From this act, It
shallow bitch, and that can indicates that Bateman exhibits

165
override anything, except instability in his relationships with
maybe bad breath or yellow people around him, or simply he
teeth, either of which is a real struggles to maintain genuine
dealbreaker..."(p.176) emotional connections with others
and even engages in shallow or
insincere interactions.
"Would Courtney like me less if Manipulation for Bateman describe about his true
Personal Gain
Luis was dead? This is the feeling, and it’s clear that his motive
question I have to face, with no just for if he kills Luis right now, he
clear answer burning back will free to used Courtney and
across my mind, as I make my completely control and manipulate
way slowly through the dining Courtney purely to fulfill his desires.

59 59/PB/F1/MNP room,.... But a physically He also thinks about his girlfriend


superior, near-perfect-looking Evelyn. all of his thought just show
shallow bitch, and that can how he will manipulate them,
override anything, except completly seeing woman just like
maybe bad breath or yellow object not as individual that have a
teeth, either of which is a real feelings.
dealbreaker..."(p.176)

166
“...he doesn't see me pull out Impulsivity Bateman walking on street and
the knife, the sharpest one, with accidentally sees stranger standing
the serrated edge, and I'm next to a white BMW and carrying a
asking him what he paid for beautiful dog. Bateman decided to
Richard, naturally but also very talk to him and said his dog was so
deliberately, without even beautiful and cute to compliment
looking up to... with a bloodied him. After that, Bateman
glove and start randomly spontaneously took out a knife and
stabbing him in the face and killed the dog, he even killed that

60 60/PB/F2/IMS head, finally slashing his throat stranger right on the side of the
open in two brief chopping street. From this incident, it indicates
motions; an arc of red-brown that without a clear motive or maybe
blood splatters the white BMW because of jealously with that
320i parked at the curb..."(p. stranger because he has a BMW car,
184) or maybe because the dog is an
expensive and treated well, it's
unclear but he can hurt other people
spontaneously without thinking
about the consequences of his

167
actions. This is evidence of an
inability to control his impulses. He
acts without any thought or
consideration for the impact his
actions.
“...he doesn't see me pull out Lack of Empathy Bateman spontaneously took out a
the knife, the sharpest one, with knife and killed the dog with sadistic
the serrated edge, and I'm and then droped to the sidewalk, and
asking him what he paid for right after when that stranger
Richard, naturally but also very screamed and cried seeing the dog's
deliberately, without even lying on the ground covered with
looking up to... with a bloodied blood, he then also stabbing that
61 61/PB/F1/LOE
glove and start randomly stranger, even he shoot his head with
stabbing him in the face and gun just to confirm that he is not
head, finally slashing his throat faking his death, without feeling
open in two brief chopping anything at all as if it was a trivial
motions; an arc of red-brown thing. This incidents, the way he kill
blood splatters the white BMW the dog and that stranger with
320i parked at the curb..." sadistically, indicates that Bateman

168
(p. 184) seems not to care about such as
feelings whether it's animals or
humans, he only sees them as mere
objects without meaning.
“...he doesn't see me pull out Poor behavior control Bateman spontaneously took out a
the knife, the sharpest one, with knife and killed the dog, he then also
the serrated edge, and I'm killed the stranger without feeling
asking him what he paid for anything at all. From all what he did,
Richard, naturally but also very it indicates of his inability to control
deliberately, without even his impulses, causing him to be
looking up to... with a bloodied unable to control his emotions and

62 62/PB/F2/PBC glove and start randomly actions. In fact, he did it


stabbing him in the face and spontaneously, without clear
head, finally slashing his throat motives, and even without looking
open in two brief chopping around him in that street which
motions; an arc of red-brown shows a lack of ability to consider
blood splatters the white BMW the long-term consequences of his
320i parked at the curb..."(p. actions through the law. This is the
184) evidence that Bateman’s inability to

169
control his behavior from hurting
people around him.

"...I appear in front of the Pathology Lying This is a scene where immediately
D'Agostino's, sales clerks after the incident he killed a dog and
beckoning for me to enter, and its owner a few seconds ago, when
I'm using an expired coupon for Bateman is walking out of an alley,
a box of oat-bran cereal and the he disguises himself by going into a

63 63/PB/F1/PL girl at the checkout counter – fast food restaurant and ordering
black, dumb, slow – doesn't get food. When ordering food, he
it, doesn't notice the expiration deliberately used an expired food
date has passed even though it's voucher.
the only thing I buy, and I get a
small..."(p. 185)
"...I appear in front of the Lack of Remorse This is a scene where immediately
D'Agostino's, sales clerks after the incident he killed a dog and
64 64/PB/F1/LOR
beckoning for me to enter, and its owner a few seconds ago, when
I'm using an expired coupon for Bateman is walking out of an alley,

170
a box of oat-bran cereal and the he disguises himself by going into a
girl at the checkout counter – fast food restaurant and ordering
black, dumb, slow – doesn't get food. When ordering food, he
it, doesn't notice the expiration deliberately used an expired food
date has passed even though it's voucher. He even muttered, thinking
the only thing I buy, and I get a the cashier was a black woman who
small... I'm running down was stupid and slow. Immediately
Broadway, then up Broadway, after getting his food Bateman left
then down again, screaming the restaurant, after that he take off
like a banshee, my coat open, his coat and screaming like he feels
flying out behind me like some a sense of pleasure or satisfaction
kind of cape."(p. 185) with all what he did a few moments
ago. From all of what he did it is
criminal, but he seems doesn't even
feels any guilt at all.
“...I calm down enough to Shallow Affect From the quote above, Bateman
become totally unangry when didn't get angry when Sabrina took
65 65/PB/F1/SA
she takes off her coat and off her coat and showed her body. It
reveals a hardbody dressed in can be concluded that Bateman looks

171
tight black peg pants and a shallow, two-faced and can change
flower-print halter top, with the emotions displayed. That way,
black pointytoed high-heeled Bateman doesn't get angry when he
shoes.”(p.190) gets what satisfied.

“but not for long because she's Stimulation seeking This is the scene where Bateman has
interrupted by yet another threesome with 2 girl, from this
orgasm and she lifts her head scene it’s describe how Bateman
up and looks back at me, her take full control with two girls and
face slick with cunt juice, and he feel so enjoyed with the sex. It
she cries out "Fuck me I'm indicates that he is obsessed with sex
coming oh god eat me I'm and just feel sense of euphoria,
66 66/PB/F2/SS
coming" and this spurs me on to
start fucking her ass very hard
while Sabrina keeps eating the
cunt that hangs over her face,
which is covered with Christie's
pussy juice”(p.194)

172
"You know, Evelyn, there were Superficial charm This is the scene where Bateman
a lot of other Xmas parties in come to Evelyn’s Christmas party.
this metropolis that I could Bateman being late to this party.
have attended tonight yet I Bateman says that he prefers to visit
chose yours. Why? you might Evelyn's Christmas party compared
ask. Why? I asked myself. I to other Christmas parties and gives
didn't come up with a feasible Christmas gifts to Evelyn, making
answer, yet I'm here, so be, you Evelyn feel happy. This action
know, grateful, babe," I say. shows that Bateman knows very well

67 67/PB/F1/SC "Oh, so this is my Christmas how to impress women. The truth is,
present?" she asks, sarcastic. he just used his charm to cover up
"How sweet, Patrick, how because he was late to the party.
thoughtful."
"No, this is." I give her a noodle
I just noticed was stuck on my
shirt cuff. "Here."
"Oh Patrick, I'm going to cry,"
she says, dangling the noodle
up to candlelight. "It's

173
gorgeous. Can I put it on
now?"(p.203)

"Listen, it's late. I'm tired." I Pathology lying Based on the quote above, it can be
fake a yawn. seen that he lied to Evelyn by
"Did I wake you?" she asks pretending to yawn. Even though he
worriedly. "I hope I didn't wake actually wanted to end the phone
68 68/PB/F1/PL
you." conversation. From what happened,
"Yes," I say. "You did. But I it can be seen that Bateman tricked
took your call so it's my fault, Evelyn.
not yours.” (p.244)
“But… what about us? What Unstable This scene where Bateman breakup
Interpersonal
about the past?” she asks with Evelyn, he said that Evelyn not
Relationship
blankly. “The past isn’t real. important to him. It indicates that

69 69/PB/NR/UIR It’s just a dream,” I say. “Don’t Bateman not interested in forming
mention the past.” She narrows emotional connection with her From
her eyes with suspicion. the dialogue it show Evelyn was
surprised by what just Bateman said.

174
“Do you have something She does not believe that during this
against me, Patrick?” And then time, with their relationship,
the hardness in her face Bateman never considered herself.
changes instantaneously to In this scene Bateman seems little or
expectation, maybe hope. even no emotion from what he said
“Evelyn,” I sigh. “I’m sorry. to Evelyn. Bateman doesn’t care
You’re just… not terribly about Evelyn’s feeling and it
important… to me.”(p.380) indicates that he has inability to build
connection emotionally with people
around him and but just manipulate
for satisfy his desire.

“But… what about us? What Parasitic This scene where Bateman breakup
about the past?” she asks with Evelyn, he said that Evelyn not
blankly. “The past isn’t real. important to him. It indicates that

70 70/PB/F2/PRST It’s just a dream,” I say. “Don’t Bateman not interested in forming
mention the past.” She narrows emotional connection with her, but
her eyes with suspicion. rather just manipulate her for his
personal gain and uses her just like

175
“Do you have something disposable object for sex like
against me, Patrick?” And then throughout the story of the novel.
the hardness in her face
changes instantaneously to
expectation, maybe hope.
“Evelyn,” I sigh. “I’m sorry.
You’re just… not terribly
important… to me.” (p.380)

“Do you have something Lack of Remorse This scene where Bateman breakup
against me, Patrick?” And then with Evelyn, he said that Evelyn not
the hardness in her face important to him. After Bateman
changes instantaneously to said hurtful to Evelyn, Bateman
expectation, maybe hope. didn't show any guilt at all; he even
71 71/PB/F1/LOR
“Evelyn,” I sigh. “I’m sorry. decided to just walk away after
You’re just…not terribly arguing endlessly with Evelyn. This
important… to me.” (p.380) shows that Bateman doesn’t care
with such as other feeling and just
using her, seeing her as an object.

176
“But… what about us? What Irresponsibility This scene where Bateman breakup
about the past?” she asks with Evelyn, he said that Evelyn not
blankly. “The past isn’t real. important to him and he doesn’t care
It’s just a dream,” I say. “Don’t with her feelings about falling love
mention the past.” She narrows with him. It indicates that he is
her eyes with suspicion. emotionally irresponsible by using
“Do you have something women for his own pleasure without
72 72/PB/F2/IRS
against me, Patrick?” And then any concern for feelings. This is the
the hardness in her face evidence that show his
changes instantaneously to irresponsibility of feelings or
expectation, maybe hope. emotionally.
“Evelyn,” I sigh. “I’m sorry.
You’re just…not terribly
important… to me.” (p.380)

177
1

You might also like