Antisocial Personality Disorder Discussed

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RESPONSE:

1. Can you please explain the research findings regarding antisocial personality disorder in terms of its causes and symptoms?

Research findings suggest a specific pattern of symptoms associated with antisocial personality disorder in terms of both symptoms and causes of the disorder. A common misconception is that antisocial personality disorder refers to people who have poor social skills. The opposite is often the case. Instead, antisocial personality disorder is characterized by a lack of conscience. People with this disorder are prone to criminal behavior, believing that their victims are weak and deserving of being taken advantage of. They tend to lie and steal. Often, they are careless with money and take action without thinking about consequences. They are often aggressive and are much more concerned with their own needs than the needs of others. http://www.4degreez.com/misc/disorder_information2.html

Some of the symptoms of antisocial personality disorder are similar to other disorders (see below), which the clinician will need to rule out in order to make an accurate diagnosis.

Symptoms -

There is a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others occurring since age 18 years, as indicated by three (or more) of the following:
Failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest.

Deceitfulness, as indicated by repeated lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure impulsivity or failure to plan ahead.

Irritability and aggressiveness, as indicated by repeated physical fights or assaults
reckless disregard for safety of self or others.

Consistent irresponsibility, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain consistent work behavior or honor financial obligations.

Lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another

The individual is at least 18 years old (under 18 diagnoses with Conduct Disorder). There is evidence of Conduct Disorder with onset before age 15 years and the occurrence of antisocial behavior is not exclusively during the course of Schizophrenia or a Manic Episode http://www.psychnet-uk.com/clinical_psychology/criteria_personality_antisocial.htm

Associated Features -
Depressed Mood.
Addiction.
Dramatic or Erratic or Antisocial ...