ASPD

Antisocial personality disorder is a personality disorder in which the person is deceitful, manipulative, and have disregard towards other people’s rights and feelings. They generally treat others harshly and with indifference, and are not remorseful of their behavior. 

Symptoms may range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms include occasional bad behavior, while people with serious forms of antisocial behavior are violent and consistently violate law. They are aggressive and are addicted to alcohol or drugs. 

It is considered to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Diagnosis is based on mental-health review. Behavior therapy is the most effective treatment strategy for controlling this personality disorder.

The common symptoms of Antisocial personality disorder include: 

• Ignoring what is right and wrong
• Lying or cheating to exploit other people
• Showing disrespect in most of the situations
• Manipulating others for gain or pleasure
• Arrogance or opinionated
• Criminal behavior 
• Disregard for other people’s rights and feelings
• Failure to plan ahead
• Irritability, anger, aggressiveness, and violence
• Lack of empathy
• Lack of respect for other people’s security
• Abusive relationships
• Persistently irresponsible and failing to develop a good work culture

People with this disorder persistently disregard and violate other people’s rights and feelings. 

Antisocial personality disorder is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The interaction of these different factors shapes the personality of a person. The actual trigger for the development of this personality disorder is not clear. 

Certain genetic constitution predisposes a person towards developing personality disorder. The genetic factors are activated by several environmental triggers. Changes in the development of brain affecting the functioning of brain is also implied in the development of antisocial behavior.

Chances of developing this disorder increases with risk factors like:

• History of conduct disorder in childhood
• Family history of antisocial personality disorder or other personality disorders
• Mental or physical abuse during childhood
• Unstable family life during childhood

This disorder is more prevalent among men when compared to women. 

Most of the information for the diagnosis of Antisocial personality disorder is provided by family and friends. The patient may refuse to take help for the problem or does not believe he/she needs help. A personality disorder is categorized as antisocial, if any three of the following signs and symptoms are present. 

• Repeatedly breaking laws or engaging in behavior that is unlawful
• Persistently cheating in a relationship, by telling lies or using false names
• Impulsivity
• Being irritable or angry most of the time. Get into fights with others often and is aggressive 
• Behaving without any consideration for other people’s or own safety
• Inability to take responsibility, failing to maintain financial obligations, or have good work culture
• Lack of guilt for being wrong

Symptoms of the behavior disorder appears before 15 years. In some patients the destructive and aggressive behavior may resolve with time. 

Treatment and regular follow-ups are important in controlling Antisocial personality disorder. This personality disorder is often treated with psychotherapy. The therapist guides the patient to manage violence and aggression. 

They may also help in improving substance abuse, and other mental issues that the patient has. But, psychotherapy may not be useful if the symptoms are severe. Medications are usually prescribed for controlling associated mental conditions like depression, anxiety, or aggression.

There is no standard way for preventing antisocial personality disorder, particularly in those who are at risk. Warning signs can be noted in childhood and treatment provided early. 

Discipline, behavior modification, problem-solving skills, parent training, family therapy, and psychotherapy may help to reduce the risk of developing personality disorders in children.

Cocc, Cubeba, Nux vom, Nat mur, Anac, Curare, and Hura brasiliensis are some examples of alternative and homeopathic remedies used for Antisocial personality disorder. 

If any of the family members have Antisocial personality disorder, it is important that all member of the family get help to cope with the situation. Methods to protect oneself from violence and aggression of the patient can be learnt. Mental health professional help in learning coping strategies.

Complications of Antisocial personality disorder are:

• child or spouse abuse,
• alcohol and substance abuse,
• self-destructive behavior,
• mental health disorders,
• premature death,
• violence.