Random shootings are now everyday broadcasts. BREAKING NEWS has become so customary that unexpected killings are no longer as shocking. It is, therefore, a matter of urgency that we learn to recognize the potential for harm by a sociopath, lunatic or mentally ill person. Personality traits involved may characterize a person of any age, any gender or any race who is determined to inflict psychological or physical harm on others.
Know that we can generally sense when we are around this type of individual. We may not know that someone with terror on his mind is ready to commit a heinous act, but we will recognize that the person has a bad temper and that when we are around this person, we feel anxious or depressed or afraid. We will find it unnerving that certain topics cannot safely be discussed. We will also recognize consistent statements that suggest that no matter what we do, it is wrong. The presence of someone like this may leave us feeling humiliated. Should we make it known that these behaviors should be reported, we are likely to hear threats of suicide.
The radical person I am discussing may have personality features involving fascination with guns or training as a sharpshooter, significant interest in previous crimes and stories about homicide. We may hear determination to "get back at" others. If counseling is suggested for distress, it will most likely be refused. This is a loner who doesn't like to follow rules, who presents in a "strange" manner and who demonstrates the capacity to laugh in the face of tragedy. It is also probable that this person has difficulties with alcohol, drugs and problems involving the police.
Solutions for managing people who are potential threats are the subject for another article. In the meantime, identify the idiosyncrasies involved so that we no longer have to say, "I can't imagine what made that happen." Remember that we are taught that "If you see something, say something." I have written this blog to help us understand what we are looking for and to encourage prompt reporting to authorities.