Antisocial+Personality+Disorder

Antisocial Personality Disorder
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 * __DSM-IV-TR__**
 * 1) There is a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others occurring since age 15 years, as indicated by three (or more) of the following:
 * 2) failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest
 * 3) deceitfulness, as indicated by repeated lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure
 * 4) impulsivity or failure to plan ahead
 * 5) irritability and aggressiveness, as indicated by repeated physical fights or assaults
 * 6) reckless disregard for safety of self or others
 * 7) consistent irresponsibility, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain consistent work behavior or honor financial obligations
 * 8) lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another
 * 9) The individual is at least age 18 years.
 * 10) There is evidence of Conduct Disorder (see Diagnostic criteria for Conduct Disorder) with onset before age 15 years.
 * 11) The occurrence of antisocial behavior is not exclusively during the course of Schizophrenia or a Manic Episode.

Antisocial personality disorder is sometimes known as sociopathic personality disorder. It's also sometimes referrred to as psychopathy but some researchers believe that antisocial personality disorder and psychopathic personality are different conditions. The intensity of antisocial symptoms tends to peak during the 20s and then may decrease over time. It's not clear whether this is a result of aging or an increased awareness of the consequences of antisocial behaviour. While you might be less likely to commit crimes against others later in life, you may still have trouble functioning in relationships, work or school. (MayoClinic.com)
 * Definition**
 * A**ntisocial personality disorder is a type of chronic mental illness in which your ways of thinking, perceiving situations and relating to others are dysfunctional. When you have antisocial personality disorder, you typically have no regard for right and wrong. You may often violate the law and the rights of others, landing yourself in frequent trouble or conflict. You may lie, behave violently and have drug and alcohol problems. You may not be able to fulfill responsibilities to your family, work or school.

The cause of antisocial personality disorder is unknown. 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. The condition is common in prison populations. Fire-setting and cruelty to animals during childhood are linked to the development of antisocial personality. (MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia)
 * Causes**

Antisocial personality disorder can be challenging to treat and there's no specific treatment for it. Some may not want or even think they need treatment. They may also need treatment for other conditions such as depression, anxiety or thyroid disorders. Treatments include psychotherapy: - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - to help identify unhealthy, negative beliefs and behaviours and replace them with healthy, positive ones. - Psychodynamic Psychotherapy - based on the theories of psychoanalysis, focuses on increasing awareness of unconscious thoughts and behaviours, developing new insights into their motivations and resolving conflicts to live a happier life. - Psychoeducation - teaches individual - and sometimes family and friends - about the illness, including treatments, coping strategies and problem-solving skills. Other treatments include Stress and Anger Management Skills and Medications. There are no medications specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat antisocial personality disorder. However several types of psychiatric medications may help with certain symptoms sometimes associated with antisocial personality disorder. These include: antidepressants, mood-stabilizing medications, anti-anxiety medications and antipsychotic medications. In some cases, antisocial personality disorder symptoms may be so severe that psychiatric hospitalization is required.
 * Treatment**

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