Antisocial personality disorders are a group of psychiatric disorders that can be difficult to diagnose and differentiate from ordinary juvenile behavior. The American Psychiatric Association defines Antisocial Personality Disorder as a pervasive pattern of disregard for the rights of others, and their subsequent violation. But, antisocial personality disorder criteria are not limited to this definition. Further, antisocial personality disorder generally begins in childhood or in early adolescence and continues into adulthood.
The disorder can be classified into three groups, and yet further into three subcategories within each group. Please consult with a psychiatrist to better understand antisocial personality disorder symptoms and diagnosis. At present, the following antisocial personality disorder criteria are used to confirm the underlying disorder:
1. Difficulty conforming to social norms and following lawful behavior. The person may engage in repeated acts of unlawful deeds that are sufficient grounds for arrest.
2. Impulsive and repeated lying, irrespective of the underlying cause, and use of frequent aliases without reason. The aliases are often combined with violent behavior and cheating.
3. Intense anger and failure to plan ahead, with repeated aggressive attitude toward simple actions and mistakes.
4. Continual irresponsibility and no guilt for wrongdoing.
5. Disregard for personal safety, or the safety of accompanying people.
Please note that the signs of antisocial personality disorder are slightly different from patient to patient.
Antisocial personality disorder causes vary. Several researchers have attributed APD to genetic disorders. Even with a strong genetic component, not every child of an antisocial parent will show similar symptoms. This shows that antisocial personality disorders are a combination of genetic, social, environmental, and even relationship factors. Various other factors that might have influenced the life of the patient are also thought to contribute to the condition. A history of sexual or physical abuse, deprivation or abandonment, and neglect are also counted as a major cause of antisocial personality disorder. This history can aggravate a latent genetic component.
The most common antisocial personality disorder tests include complete physical examination, lab tests (blood tests, urine tests, and blood pressure tests), alcohol checks, drug evaluations, and hormone tests. A full series of psychological tests is required to rule out APD, or to confirm the disease.
Most doctors will disagree on the severity and type of antisocial personality disorder you might have. The proper diagnosis of antisocial behavior is based on the patient’s symptoms and the doctor’s opinion.
It’s not easy to treat the signs of antisocial personality disorder because there is no set treatment regimen. This syndrome may require long-term treatment. A few patients may even be recommended for hospitalization and residential treatment programs. But, every course of treatment will require patient cooperation to get the best results.
© Newsmax. All rights reserved.