Is YOUR neighbor a psychopath? Expert reveals how to tell if someone in your community has the disorder – warning there are 'very likely SEVERAL' living in your area

A psychologist has revealed what to do if you suspect your neighbor is a psychopath – a possibility that's more likely than you might think.

In an article published by Psychology todayKurt W. Ela explained that psychopaths are present in communities across the country, some more than others, but it is not a concern that should “keep you awake at night.”

The associate professor of psychiatry at Georgetown University School of Medicine lives in Washington, DC, where the highest prevalence of psychopathy in the contiguous United States.

“The most important point to remember for better sleep is that these individuals are not necessarily violent,” he wrote.

The expert (pictured) explained that psychopathy is not a psychiatric diagnosis and that professionals like himself rely on the diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD).

Ela noted that psychopathy is not a psychiatric diagnosis and that professionals like himself instead rely on the diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD).

Characterized by a consistent disregard for the rights and feelings of other people, the mental health condition has qualities of both psychopathy and sociopathy.

Signs of ASPD include ignoring right and wrong, lying, aggressiveness, reckless behavior, a lack of remorse or empathy, manipulation, difficulty forming meaningful emotional bonds, and trouble with the law.

Ela admitted that people with the personality disorder may “not make good neighbors,” but not all of them are the deranged serial killers you see in the movies.

The expert explained that many psychopaths are drawn to careers as CEOs, lawyers, surgeons and civil servantsand other positions that “require a strong degree of detachment.”

According to the report, approximately 1.2 percent of men and 0.3 to 0.7 percent of women in the US are believed to have clinically significant levels of psychopathic traits. American Psychological Association (APA).

Ela said this estimate suggests that “there are very likely several to many psychopaths in your neighborhood or city,” depending on size and location.

If you come into contact with someone you suspect is a psychopath, he shared that there are ways to “limit negative encounters.”

First, the psychologist advised that you should “trust your gut” and look for warning signs that you are dealing with someone who has antisocial qualities.

He said they may ask you for “more favors or special treatment” without offering anything in return, or “show little interest in you or your life.”

“Maybe you just feel uncomfortable around them, without knowing why,” he added. “If you're experiencing any of these feelings, you probably want to distance yourself.”

Ela explained that you also need to “set boundaries” with the person to let them know that “he cannot manipulate or take advantage of you.”

He noted that you should refrain from sharing “overly personal information” with them that could be used against you in the future.

Finally, he warned that you should avoid “confrontation” at all costs because people with ASPD “can be impulsive and vindictive.”

“If they feel wronged or challenged, things can escalate quickly,” he said. “And because they worry less about social consequences and experience no remorse, their actions can be dangerous.”