Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)

Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), also called sociopathy, is a pervasive, persistent disorder that disregards or violates others’ rights and feelings, shows no regard for right/wrong, and intends to treat others harshly or with cruel indifference. ASPD often begins in childhood or early adolescence as conduct disorder and continues into adulthood as ASPD — it’s the only personality disorder (PD) not diagnosed under age 18. Causes are probably a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Men are at greater risk than women. When comorbid with narcissism, ASPD can be very difficult to treat. People with ASPD:

• Show no empathy or remorse, are deceitful, lie easily, and manipulate for personal gain.
• Consistently disregard social norms, rules, and rights of others.
• Are impulsive, irresponsible, and consistently fail to meet work, school, or family obligations. Have difficulty planning ahead.
• Can be aggressive, violent, and repeatedly break the law, becoming criminals.
• Have reckless disregard for own or others’ safety, including problems with drug and alcohol use