Although my closest family members often praise me for my apparent compassionate nature, I must confess that it's difficult for me to sincerely care about anyone but myself.
Hypothetically, if I were to return home tomorrow to find my 'loved ones' brutally dismembered, I suspect - but do not know - that I wouldn't react at all. Even though it's only a supposition of mine, I believe I only exhibit real emotion when I am upset at myself, which is usually perceived as being utterly trivial by those who know me.
I don't think of myself as a sociopath as I always accept the blame for my wrongful actions; I think of myself as the lowest of the low; I am neither charismatic nor am I charming and I am horrendous at reading people! Yet I am self-centered and lack empathy and, on occasions, remorse and guilt.
Is this common for individuals on the spectrum?
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"Every day, once a day, give yourself a present. Don't plan it, don't wait for it, just let it happen. " - Special Agent Dale Cooper, Twin Peaks