What is Antisocial Personality Disorder?
According to the DSM IV, Antisocial Personality Disorder is defined as:
"A pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others, occurring since age 15 years, as indicated by three or more of the following:
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What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include:
- A disregard for right and wrong
- Lying
- Using charm for manipulation
- Egocentrism
- Hostility
- Lack of Empathy and remorse
- Unnecessary risk-taking
- Irresponsible work behavior
- Failure to learn from the negative consequences of behavior
How does it progress?
Antisocial personality disorder normally progresses from childhood conduct disorder through substance abuse, a series of shocking or traumatic events, or a combination of the two
What are some predisposing factors?
Both nature and nurture play a role in this disorder. Genetics have a major influence on whether or not a person has ASPD, however the person's environment can also have a drastic effect. For example, if someone is already genetically predisposed to having this disorder, growing up in an abusive household can further develop the disorder, and can also be a cause for an extremely negative use of the person's capabilities.
Differential Diagnosis
In it's earlier stages, Antisocial Personality Disorder is k
Many times, people who later develop ASPD are said to have childhood conduct disorder; however, because a person cannot be diagnosed as having ASPD until he or she is 18, the two are not normally, confused, only related. In most cases, ASPD is distinct enough as to not be confused with other disorders.
Many times, people who later develop ASPD are said to have childhood conduct disorder; however, because a person cannot be diagnosed as having ASPD until he or she is 18, the two are not normally, confused, only related. In most cases, ASPD is distinct enough as to not be confused with other disorders.
Associated Features
A person with Antisocial Personality Disorder may also have depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and narcissistic personality disorder
Suggested Treatment
Psychotherapy, although not guaranteed to be effective, is the suggested treatment for ASPD
Prevalence and Sex ratio
The prevalence of ASPD in the general population ranges from .2-3%, and the male to female ratio is 3:1