Antisocial Personality Disorder
Antisocial personality disorder is a mental illness that affects the way people think and behave. It can lead to social problems and criminal activity. The most common symptoms include a disregard for the rights of others, violation of the law, and a lack of remorse.
Psychiatry's Forgotten Disorder
Often described as "psychiatry's forgotten disorder," antisocial personality disorder is a pervasive pattern of behavior that impedes the individual's ability to function in society, according to Psychiatric News. It is also one of the most difficult personality disorders to treat.
Treatment for Antisocial Personality Disorder
Treatment for antisocial personality disorder is usually supervised by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist. The disorder is characterized by a disregard for the rights of others and acts of violence that can include breaking the law, lying, and fighting. A person with ASPD may have a number of other symptoms that make it hard to get along in society, including impulsivity, aggression, and deception. They can also have a tendency to abuse alcohol or drugs and are more likely to be in prison.
Causes of Antisocial Personality Disorder
The symptoms of ASPD typically appear in childhood or adolescence. They can be triggered by trauma, such as neglect or abuse, as well as being raised by parents who were abusive. The disorder is also more common among men, as opposed to women. Some researchers think the impulsivity that is a characteristic of ASPD may be linked to abnormally high levels of serotonin, which regulates mood. In addition, studies have found that individuals with ASPD have a greater risk for serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Genetics and environment are also thought to play a role in the development of ASPD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Twin, family, and adoption studies indicate that antisocial traits are inherited. Experiencing trauma, abuse or neglect, being a young male, living in a low-income community, and having a large family are all associated with an increased likelihood of developing the condition.
Treatment and Intervention
Psychotherapy and behavioral interventions can help people with ASPD improve their relationships with their families and reduce the likelihood of violence, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, mentalization-based therapy, skills training, and motivational interviewing have been shown to be effective in treating ASPD.
Diagnosis and Medication
Antisocial personality disorder is diagnosed when symptoms meet criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The fifth edition was published in 2013. This diagnosis can be made by a trained mental health professional who examines a patient's behavior and notes any signs of antisocial personality disorder. The condition can be extremely dangerous to the individual with it and the people who live in their home. Many people with ASPD are incarcerated for their crime-related behaviors and are given treatment to address the problem. They may be given medications to help them control their other health problems, such as anxiety or depression. The treatment plan may include education and support services, such as drug rehab or mental health counseling.
