People with antisocial personality disorder have little or no regard for right or wrong.
They antagonize and often act insensitively or in an unfeeling manner.
Individuals with this disorder may lie, engage in aggressive or violent behavior, and participate in criminal activity.
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Psychopathy is associated with antisocial personality disorder.
Symptoms of Antisocial Personality Disorder
There are a number of defining symptoms of antisocial personality disorder.
People with ASPD:
These characteristics often lead to major difficulties in many life areas.
They are also often described as bullies by their peers.
While the condition may begin in childhood, it cannot be officially diagnosed before the age of 18.
Kids who display these symptoms are diagnosed withconduct disorder.
Causes of Antisocial Personality Disorder
The exact causes of antisocial personality disorder are not known.
Personality is shaped by a variety of forces including nature and nurture.
Research suggests that ASPD is likely strongly linked to inheritance and that environmental influences probably exacerbate its development.
Upbringing
Upbringing can also have an important influence.
Childhood abuse, neglect, and trauma have also been linked to the onset of ASPD.
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Treatments for Antisocial Personality Disorder
Antisocial personality disorder is difficult to treat for a number of reasons.
People with the disorder rarely seek out treatment on their own.
Those who do generally receive treatment only after some key in of altercation with the legal system.
They can help you learn coping skills that will help you set boundaries to protect yourself from harm.
Group therapy and support groups may also be helpful resources of support and information.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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