When Mental Health Issues Touch Your Family
Divorce rates continue to rise and families can be destroyed. In some cases, couples can move forward and handle child rearing and financial issues with minimal disruption.
Antisocial Personality Disorder is defined as: A pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others occurring since age 15 years old, as indicated by 3 or more of the following:
failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest
deceitfulness, as indicated by repeated lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure
impulsivity or failure to plan ahead
irritability and aggressiveness, as indicated by repeated physical fights or assaults
reckless disregard for safety of self or others
consistent irresponsibility, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain consistent work behavior or honor financial obligations
lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another
Additional criteria for a diagnosis of Antisocial Personality Disorder
The individual must be at least 18 years old.
There is evidence of Conduct Disorder with onset before age 15.
The occurrence of antisocial behavior is not associated with Schizophrenia or a Manic Episode.
Other Characteristics of Antisocial Personality Disorder
Individuals with antisocial personality disorder are often angry and arrogant, but may be capable of superficial wit and charm. They may be adept at flattery and manipulating the emotions of others. People with antisocial personality disorder often have extensive substance abuse and legal problems.
Causes of Antisocial Personality Disorder
Personality disorders are chronic behavioral and relationship patterns that interfere with a person’s life over many years. To receive a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder, a person must have exhibited behavior that qualifies for a diagnosis of conduct disorder during childhood.
The cause of antisocial personality disorder is unknown, but genetic factors and child abuse are believed to contribute to the development of this condition. People with an antisocial or alcoholic parent are at increased risk. Far more men than women are affected, and unsurprisingly, the condition is common in prison populations.
Treatment of Antisocial Personality Disorder
Antisocial personality disorder is one of the most difficult personality disorders to treat. Individuals rarely seek treatment on their own and may only initiate therapy when mandated by a court. The efficacy of treatment for antisocial personality disorder is largely unknown.
For comprehensive information on antisocial and other personality disorders, visit the HealthyPlace.com Personality Disorders Community.
Source: American Psychiatric Association. (1994). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association.