10 Signs of Anti-Social Personality Disorder

Anti-social personality disorder is one of a group of personality disorders known as cluster B, which are also known as erratic or dramatic personality disorders. The character flaws that make up this disorder can exist in anyone in some combination. Therefore, it is important to rule out similar but less serious diagnoses first. For example, you might receive a diagnosis of anti-social personality traits if you meet some but not all the criteria for the full-blown disorder. Anti-social personality disorder is a very serious problem that only a licensed mental health practitioner such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or specially trained clinical social worker can diagnose and treat.The signs and symptoms of this personality disorder are consistent, enduring and pervasive. They begin to manifest early in life, with all patients who receive the diagnosis having a history of conduct disorder by age 15. People with anti-social personality disorder exhibit a persistent disregard for the consequences of their actions and the rights of others, sometimes to the point of extreme mental or physical cruelty. In severe cases, mental health practitioners might refer to the characterizing behavior as sociopathic or psychopathic. Anti-social personality disorder is among the most difficult to treat. This is because those who suffer from the symptoms are usually forced to seek treatment by a court order rather than seeking it voluntarily. If you are concerned that you or someone you care about might have anti-social personality disorder, continue reading for a discussion of 10 signs to look for.

1. Antisocial Behavior

Antisocial Behavior is any behavior that deviates significantly from the established norms, laws and morals of an individual’s culture. It is generally considered to be unacceptable regardless of circumstance. It is also characterized by a lack of regard for the well-being or rights of other people. Those who engage in this behavior are often irresponsible, deceitful, impulsive, too easily bored and hostile. They find it difficult or impossible to control their anger. They might engage in aggression to get what they want and feel no remorse over their aggressive behavior.A common consequence of anti-social personality disorder is drug or alcohol abuse, which makes the behavior worse and leads to further consequences. If you suffer from anti-social personality disorder, you might engage in criminal behavior. Prison time is common among people with anti-social personality disorder. Unfortunately, a prison environment very often encourages and reinforces antisocial behavior. Worst of all, the behavior causes others pain and fear, effectively isolating you and leading to situations that might compound it. In its most extreme forms, antisocial behavior might include emotional or even physical cruelty to people or animals. This so-called sociopathy or psychopathy is essentially a deficiency or even complete lack of conscience, respectively.Next