Antisocial personality disorder is diagnosed in 1 to 4 percent of the population of the United States, and 90 percent of people who suffer from the disorder are men. Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by a disregard for right and wrong, destructive and hurtful behavior, violence, lying and a general lack of remorse for hurtful words or deeds. People suffering from ASPD often break laws and violate the rights of others. Caring for someone with ASPD can be difficult, but there are ways to help your loved one.
Step 1
Research the disorder to understand your loved one and her symptoms. ASPD is a serious neurologically based disorder, and learning about it and its root causes can help you cope with the anger, violence or manipulation that accompanies the disorder.
Step 2
Set emotional, financial and physical boundaries and develop a clear and concise plan of action in case your loved one acts out against you. For instance, if your loved one begins verbally attacking you, leave the room and wait until he calms down to resume conversation. If necessary, your set boundaries may dictate that you permanently sever a relationship that becomes dangerous or violent.
Step 3
Gently encourage your loved one to seek treatment if he isn't already. Many treatments are available to help personality disorders, including psychotherapy and medication. Sometimes, getting help means being hospitalized until the symptoms can be controlled.
Step 4
Remind your family member or loved one suffering from ASPD to take her medication on time. Controlling the destructive symptoms of ASPD allows your loved one to take control of her life.
Step 5
Be willing to go to family therapy to help manage relations between friends and family members. Group therapies, such as family therapy, are often a positive way to manage ASPD.
Step 6
Encourage your loved one to get involved in a support group that can help him manage the feelings and emotions that come with having antisocial personality disorder.
Step 7
Do not stay in an abusive relationship for the sole purpose of helping or changing someone with ASPD. Often, this type of relationship is unhealthy and even harmful to both you and to your loved one.
Step 8
Take care of yourself by leading a healthy lifestyle and, if you are intimately connected to someone with antisocial personality disorder, seeking therapy to process the pain and emotions that come with loving someone with the disorder. Taking care of yourself allows you to more productively help your loved one and set healthy boundaries.
References
- PsychCentral; AntiSocial Personality Disorder Treatment; June 1, 2010
- CNN Health; Antisocial Personality Disorder; October 8, 2010
- Mental Health America: Personality Disorders
- Mayo Clinic; Antisocial Personality Disorder; October 8, 2010
- Out of the Fog: Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)
- Out of the Fog: Out of the Fog Toolbox
