[Brad from Tennessee]

I think Foley, like a lot of politicians on both sides of the aisle is what, in abnormal psychology, is sometimes called a "functional psychopath." Bill Clinton is a classic example. Unlike criminal psychopaths, functional psychopaths are slick and disciplined enough to mask their symptoms and avoid most major problems with the law. They are very dangerous and destructive once they get inside a corporation, government or political party. Their prime motivation is power. I believe Foley has been a scandal waiting to happen for a long time. There may be a number of skeletons in his closet that would have come out even if this incident is a "prank." Already there are other pages making accusations though they have no hard evidence.

[ichabod1]

Power is the way a "functional sociopath" (I prefer sociopath to psychopath) insulates him or herself from suffering the consequences of their behavior. I don't know why Deb Lafave comes to mind all of a sudden.

Messing with kids is these people's downfall... Clinton, Lafave, Foley. They're unpredictable. That's why they call them jailbait even, in these cases, when they're legally of age.

[hardworking]

Excellent analysis. One additional important fact: psychopaths do not have a conscience. Hence, what we assess as 'lying' is just a normal process to them.