Antisocial personality disorder
Antisocial Personality Disorder
Antisocial personality disorder (pronunciation: an·ti·so·cial per·so·na·li·ty dis·or·der) is a mental health disorder characterized by a disregard for the rights of others. Individuals with antisocial personality disorder often violate the law, which may lead to criminal behavior. They may lie, behave violently, and have problems with drug and alcohol use.
Etymology
The term "antisocial personality disorder" is derived from the Greek word "anti" meaning against, "social" referring to society or community, and "personality disorder" indicating a type of mental disorder in which you have a rigid and unhealthy pattern of thinking, functioning and behaving.
Symptoms
Symptoms of antisocial personality disorder include a disregard for right and wrong, persistent lying or deceit, using charm or wit to manipulate others, recurring difficulties with the law, and a disregard for the safety of oneself or others.
Causes
The exact cause of antisocial personality disorder isn't known, but it's likely that genetics and environmental factors play a role. A family history of antisocial personality disorder or other personality disorders or mental illness, being subjected to abuse or neglect during childhood, and instability in family life may increase the risk.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder is typically based on a psychological evaluation. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) by the American Psychiatric Association is often used to diagnose mental conditions and specifies the criteria for antisocial personality disorder.
Treatment
Treatment for antisocial personality disorder primarily involves psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy may be effective in helping people with antisocial personality disorder understand their condition and learn to relate to others in a more positive and rewarding way.
Related Terms
- Personality disorder
- Mental health
- Psychotherapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
- American Psychiatric Association
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antisocial personality disorder
- Wikipedia's article - Antisocial personality disorder
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