Antisocial Personality Disorder
A personality disorder marked by a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others.
Overview
Antisocial personality disorder involves a long-standing pattern of disregard for the rights of others, beginning by adolescence and continuing into adulthood, and is diagnosed only in adults.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs can include repeated unlawful behavior, deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, disregard for the safety of others, consistent irresponsibility, and lack of remorse. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic factors, early conduct problems, and adverse childhood experiences are each associated with increased risk.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Specialized psychotherapy approaches may be considered, though engagement in treatment can be a challenge and evidence for specific approaches is more limited than for some other conditions.
Living With Antisocial Personality Disorder
Treatment often focuses on reducing harmful behaviors and addressing co-occurring conditions such as substance use.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
The course varies; some features may lessen with age, though the disorder can be associated with significant interpersonal and legal difficulties over time.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.