The Antisocial Personality Disorder

Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by disrespect for others, violation of others’ rights, irresponsibility, deception, and violation of others’ rights. Antisocial personality disorder is only diagnosed in people under the age of 18 who have already displayed symptoms of conduct disorder before reaching the age of 15. (Stout, 2006). If not treated in its early stages, the symptoms of this condition can be severe. The most harmful behavioral feature exhibited in an individual with antisocial personality disorder is psychopathic behavior. Psychopathy is defined as a complete absence of moral sensitivity for others. Individuals suffering with this condition may appear kind at first glance.  However, they are prone to temper, and they are highly aggressive. Their irresponsible behavior is coupled by substantial complaints and sometimes have suicidal thoughts. Antisocial personality disorder is substantially common in males than females. Forensic research indicates that the condition is rampant among men who abuse drugs and are alcoholic (Westermeyer, 2005).

Criteria used to make the diagnosis

The following are common traits of offensive and disregard for others rights:

Inability to adjust to social standards and failure to abide by the laws as evident in continuous arrests for breaking the law.

Victims are deceitful as the often use lies to manipulate others for personal satisfaction and pleasure.

Failure to plan for the future leading to impulsive decisions.

Irritative behavior is typical of individuals with this disorder. They end up in fights and violent actions with others.

Regard for the safety and well-being of others is least of their concern.

Lack of the guilty conscience in the event of having hurt or mistreated someone.

The individual is at least 18 years of age

There was evidence of conduct disorder before the age of 15.

If an individual has schizophrenia, the presence of Antisocial behavior is not considered.

References

Stout, M. (2006). The sociopath next door: The ruthless versus the rest of us. Harmony Books.

Westermeyer, J. and Thuras, P. (2005). Association of antisocial personality disorder and

substance disorder morbidity in a clinical sample. American Journal of Drug and Alcohol

Abuse.