Psychopathy is a disorder characterised by specific phenomenological and etiological traits pertaining to emotions, behaviour and interpersonal relationships. When studying the etiological factors contributing to psychopathy, it is vital to point out that there are several ways for it to come about. When looked at separately, biological, psychological and social risk factors relevant for the onset of psychopathy still do not provide a complete picture of this phenomenon. However, it may be concluded that the onset and preservation of this disorder results from their complex interaction. Consequently, this paper aims at comprehending and conceptualising the relevant factors contributing to the development of psychopathic tendencies. An overview of reference works will try to provide an answer to the following: Which biological, psychological and social factors contribute to the development of psychopathic tendencies? What is the interaction between biological, psychological and social factors? When discussing etiological factors, elaborating the very notion of psychopathy is immensely important, which is why the first part of this thesis will primarily delve into shedding light on that. Moreover, it will deal with the notion’s historical development and its relevant phenomenological characteristics. An overview of risk factors relevant for the development of psychopathic tendencies and their interconnectedness will be given and explained in the second part of this thesis. The factors will be divided into three broader categories: 1) biological 2) psychological 3) social.