Antisocial
Personality Disorder
Discover
Whether or Not This Personality Disorder is a Problem for You!
The main feature of
Antisocial Personality Disorder is a "pervasive
pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others." This
disorder typically begins in childhood or early adolescence.
According to the
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM-IV), antisocial personality symptoms are as follows:
Three
or more of these symptoms need to be present:
- Disrespecting
the law by continually participating in unlawful activities that result
in arrest.
- Constant lying,
deceitfulness, or conning others for personal gain.
- Impulsive acts
and failure to plan ahead.
- Irritable and
aggressive behavior as evidenced by physical fighting/assaults.
- Lack of concern
for the safety of oneself or of another person as evidenced by reckless
behavior.
- Constant
irresponsibility with work or financial duties.
- Difficulty with
feeling remorse when he or she has hurt, stolen, or mistreated another
person. Will attempt to rationalize their behavior.
If you feel that
you may have a antisocial personality, talk to a local
therapist or doctor about your concerns.
Keep in mind, in
order to be diagnosed with this condition, this disorder has to take up
a
significant part of your daily living. In other words, if your symptoms
haven't caused several problems with the law, in your relationships, or
with your career/job, then it's unlikely that this disorder is an
issue.
However, it's not
uncommon to have a few of these symptoms at one point
in your life! Just remember, it has to be severe enough that it has
affected your ability to function in a logical, respectful manner.
Resource:
American Psychiatric
Association (APA),
2000. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th ed.
Washington, D.C., American Psychiatric Association.
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