TOW #9- The Sociopath Next Door by Martha Stout

The Sociopath Next Door by Martha Stout is a detailed informational book detailing the nature of a sociopath. Martha Stout, a PH.D and psychologist, enlightens her readers on the aspects of a common sociopath while allowing her readers to be able to recognize them. Stout arranges her text in such a way that forwards her purpose, and implements exact information to add to her credibility. The text is arranged into chapters, each with a slightly different topic, and each chapter follows a certain pattern. Each chapter contains scenarios displayed through anecdotes, and then analyzes information that should have been obtained within these scenarios. This format allows the reader to have a visual of what is going on, instead of having just an explanation. It also allows Stout to find a common ground as she attempts to communicate information to her audience. She is able to relate information back to a scenario, allowing her uninformed audience to better grasp what Stout intends them to learn. However, in order for the audience to take any interest in the information Stout relays, Stout must first establish her credibility. Immediately from the introduction, Stout refers to herself as a psychologist and makes repeated references to her profession.  In one instance, Stout chooses to begin her sentence with, “As a psychologist…” (Stout, 25). Without referencing her profession, the audience would not have the slightest idea as to where Stout’s information was derived. By referencing her title as a Ph.D. and psychologist, the audience is able to trust that the information provided to them is as factual as possible.  Despite the fact that some of the “information” can only be at most speculation, by the mention of credentials Stout is able to gain the trust of readers, as they may have little background information to rely on.  Through the arrangement and establishment of credibility within the text, Stout is able to gain the trust of her audience and, moreover, relay the intended information to them. 

The Sociopath Next Door
Martha Stout, Ph.D.