Antisocial personality disorder is a mental health condition characterized by individuals with a long-term pattern of manipulating, exploiting or violating the rights of others. People with antisocial personality disorder typically act out their conflicts and ignore normal rules of social behavior. They tend to be impulsive, irresponsible, cynical and callous. They may show no respect for other people and feel no remorse when confronted with the effects of their behavior on others. Show
Frequently lacking empathy, these individuals display contempt for the feelings, rights and sufferings of others. An inflated sense of self may cause them to feel that ordinary work or activities are beneath them. Or, they may be unconcerned about their current problems or their future. Persons with antisocial personality disorder also tend to be excessively opinionated, self-assured or cocky. They may display a glib, superficial charm and can be quite articulate, seeking to impress others. They may also be irresponsible and exploit others in their sexual relationships. Individuals with antisocial personality disorder frequently have a history of legal difficulties, the result of belligerent and irresponsible behavior, as well as aggressive – and even violent – relationships. Antisocial personality disorder may be commonly referred to as psychopathy or sociopathy, although neither term is recognized professionally for diagnosis. How Common is Antisocial Personality Disorder?Antisocial personality disorder is 70 percent more prevalent in males than females. During any given 12-month period, between 0.2 and 3.3 percent of the population have the disorder. The condition is quite common among people who are in prison. Co-occurring ConditionsThese people are at high risk for substance abuse, especially alcoholism, since it helps them to relieve tension, irritability and boredom. Signs and SymptomsA person with antisocial personality disorder may:
Symptoms tend to peak during the late teenage years and early 20s. As with most personality disorders, the intensity of antisocial personality disorder typically decreases with age. By the time they reach their 40s or 50s, most people will experience fewer of the extreme symptoms. DiagnosisPersonality disorders such as antisocial personality disorder are typically diagnosed by a trained mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Family physicians and general practitioners are generally not sufficiently trained or equipped to make this type of psychological diagnosis. The disorder is diagnosed based on a psychological evaluation that assesses the history and severity of symptoms. To be diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder, the individual must have had a pattern of antisocial behavior since age 15, although only adults 18 years or older can be diagnosed with this disorder. In addition, the majority of the following symptoms must be present:
TreatmentAntisocial personality disorder is one of the most difficult personality disorders to treat. People with this condition rarely seek treatment on their own. They may only start treatment when required to by a court. Treatment typically involves long-term psychotherapy with a therapist who has experience in treating this kind of personality disorder. Support groups tailored specifically for antisocial personality disorder also can be quite helpful. Individuals with this disorder often feel more at ease in discussing their feelings and behaviors with their peers in this type of supportive environment. Find help for Antisocial Personality Disorder Sources: Mental Health America Medline Plus (National Institutes of Health) Other Resources: http://psychcentral.com/disorders/antisocial-personality-disorder-symptoms/ Which of the following defines antisocial personality disorder?Antisocial personality disorder is a particularly challenging type of personality disorder characterised by impulsive, irresponsible and often criminal behaviour. Someone with antisocial personality disorder will typically be manipulative, deceitful and reckless, and will not care for other people's feelings.
What are the 7 types of disorders?What Are the 7 types of Mental Disorders?. Anxiety Disorders.. Mood Disorders.. Psychotic Disorders.. Eating Disorders.. Personality Disorders.. Dementia.. Autism.. What term refers to a condition in which a person lacks feelings or emotions?Alexithymia is a broad term to describe problems with feeling emotions. In fact, this Greek term used in Freudian psychodynamic theories loosely translates to “no words for emotion.” While the condition is not well-known, it's estimated that 1 in 10 people has it.
Which of the following is a state of mental confusion characterized by excitement restlessness hallucinations and incoherent speech?noun, plural de·lir·i·ums, de·lir·i·a [dih-leer-ee-uh]. Pathology. a more or less temporary disorder of the mental faculties, as in fevers, disturbances of consciousness, or intoxication, characterized by restlessness, excitement, delusions, hallucinations, etc.
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