Antisocial Personality Disorder

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What is Antisocial Personality Disorder?

Antisocial personality disorder is a psychiatric condition in which a person manipulates, exploits, or violates the rights of others. This behavior is often criminal.



Alternative names

Psychopathic personality; Sociopathic personality; Personality disorder - antisocial



Causes

Personality disorders are long-term (chronic) patterns of behaviors and relationships that interfere with a person's life over many years. The cause of antisocial personality disorder is unknown. Genetic factors and child abuse are believed to contribute to the development of this condition. People with an antisocial or alcoholic parent are at increased risk. Far more men than women are affected. The condition is common in prison populations. Fire-setting and cruelty to animals during chil...



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What is Antisocial Personality Disorder?

Antisocial personality disorder is a psychiatric condition in which a person manipulates, exploits, or violates the rights of others. This behavior is often criminal.

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Alternative names

Psychopathic personality; Sociopathic personality; Personality disorder - antisocial

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Causes

Personality disorders are long-term (chronic) patterns of behaviors and relationships that interfere with a person's life over many years.

The cause of antisocial personality disorder is unknown. Genetic factors and child abuse are believed to contribute to the development of this condition. People with an antisocial or alcoholic parent are at increased risk. Far more men than women are affected. The condition is common in prison populations.

Fire-setting and cruelty to animals during childhood are linked to the development of antisocial personality.

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Symptoms & Signs

A person with antisocial personality disorder:

  • Breaks the law repeatedly
  • Lies, steals, and fights often
  • Disregards the safety of self and others
  • Does not show any guilt
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Exams and Tests

To receive a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder, a person must have shown behaviors of conduct disorder during childhood.

People with antisocial personality disorder may have the following signs:

  • Anger and arrogance
  • Capable of acting witty and charming
  • Good at flattery and manipulating other people's emotions
  • Substance abuse and legal problems
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Treatments

Antisocial personality disorder is one of the most difficult personality disorders to treat. People with this condition rarely seek treatment on their own. They may only start therapy when required to by a court.

The effectiveness of treatment for antisocial personality disorder is not known.

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Prognosis

Symptoms tend to peak during the late teenage years and early 20's. They may improve on their own by a person's 40's.

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Possible Complications

Complications can include imprisonment and drug abuse.

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When to contact a medical professional

Call for an appointment with a mental health professional if:

  • You have symptoms of antisocial personality disorder
  • Your child shows behaviors of this disorder
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References

Moore Dp, Jefferson JW. Antisocial personality disorder. In: Moore DP, Jefferson JW, eds. Handbook of Medical Psychiatry. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2004: chap 137.

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Review Date: 10/17/2008

Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Timothy A. Rogge, MD, private practice in Psychiatry, Kirkland, Washington. Also reviewed byDavid Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.10/17/2008

Antisocial Personality Disorder Articles

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Conversations On Antisocial Personality Disorder

  • The last post is the winner...


    • Posted On December 4, 2007 09:22:36 AM

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      Ok give it to me off the top of your head... mine...I need to start the dishwasher and my husband is rubbing my feet and it feels really good lol!! Read More

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      ...ears, hypnotheraphy, out patient eating disorders clinic, meds, OA metting.. I think that's it! Read More

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Members Who Dare

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Talk

anhong85: Antisocial personality disorder. Treat and cure me please.

lioncaller: @DaveBartlett1 You can read up on Antisocial Personality Disorder, Narcissistic PD, Psychopathy, attachment theory #scribechat

rafalkner: I feel special when people with antisocial personality disorder like me.

SaneCharlie: The play is about people with 'Antisocial Personality Disorder'. Apparently, I make a good sociopath! (or whatever)

ACCRI: What is Antisocial Personality Disorder?: Understanding Mental Health Conditions like APD http://goo.gl/S5NG



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