Antisocial Personality Disorder

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Antisocial Personality Disorder is characterised by a lack of conscience, no respect for others and the belief that conventional morality does not apply. To the sufferer of this disorder, other people are regarded as weak and deserving of being taken advantage of; they are seen as objects to be manipulated. A common misconception is that those with antisocial personality disorder have poor social skills, but this is incorrect - they simply have no respect or desire to abide by social norms.

Those with the disorder find it difficult to accept that other people have the ability to think for themselves and have their own ideas and emotions. They lack empathy and remorse and can be considered as dangerous. Substance abuse and alcoholism are common with those with the disorder, as they attempt to relieve tension, boredom and irritability. Rarely is a job held for long and responsibilities are not considered important.

Criminal acts are common with those suffering from this disorder. Lying, cheating and conning others, even those closest to them, occur frequently and jail is a common outcome. Individuals rationalise their behaviour, showing the dysfunction of conscience and the lack of remorse. Often the sufferer will take actions without thinking through the consequences, only caring about their own feelings. Impulsive and irresponsible behaviour typify those with antisocial personality disorder.

Symptoms:

Failure to conform to social norms

Lack of remorse

Irresponsibility

Deceitfulness

Impulsivity

Irritability

Aggressiveness

Reckless disregard of self or others

Causes:

The cause of antisocial personality disorder is currently unknown, however environmental, genetic factors and child abuse are believed to significantly contribute to this disorder. Children with antisocial or alcoholic parents are also more prone to developing the disorder. The diagnosis is limited to those over 18 years of age, however there is usually a history of similar behaviours before age 15.

Treatment:

Antisocial Personality Disorder is recognised as being one the most difficult of all personality disorders to treat. Psychotherapy is often the treatment of choice for this disorder, however individuals rarely seek treatment on their own and may only begin therapy when mandated by a court.

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