MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Antisocial personality disorder

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Antisocial personality disorder

Contents of this page:
Alternative Names Definition Causes Symptoms Exams and Tests	Treatment Outlook (Prognosis) Possible Complications When to Contact a Medical Professional References

Alternative Names

Psychopathic personality; Sociopathic personality; Personality disorder - antisocial

Definition Return to top

Antisocial personality disorder is a psychiatric condition in which a person manipulates, exploits, or violates the rights of others. This behavior is often criminal.

Causes Return to top

Personality disorders are long-term (chronic) patterns of behaviors and relationships that interfere with a person's life over many years.

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.

Symptoms Return to top

A person with antisocial personality disorder:

Breaks the law repeatedly
Lies, steals, and fights often
Disregards the safety of self and others
Does not show any guilt

Exams and Tests Return to top

To receive a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder, a person must have shown behaviors of conduct disorder during childhood.

People with antisocial personality disorder may have the following signs:

Anger and arrogance
Capable of acting witty and charming
Good at flattery and manipulating other people's emotions
Substance abuse and legal problems

Treatment Return to top

Antisocial personality disorder is one of the most difficult personality disorders to treat. People with this condition rarely seek treatment on their own. They may only start therapy when required to by a court.

The effectiveness of treatment for antisocial personality disorder is not known.

Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top

Symptoms tend to peak during the late teenage years and early 20's. They may improve on their own by a person's 40's.

Possible Complications Return to top

Complications can include imprisonment and drug abuse.

When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top

Call for an appointment with a mental health professional if:

You have symptoms of antisocial personality disorder
Your child shows behaviors of this disorder

References Return to top

Moore Dp, Jefferson JW. Antisocial personality disorder. In: Moore DP, Jefferson JW, eds. Handbook of Medical Psychiatry. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2004: chap 137.

Update Date: 10/17/2008

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Timothy A. Rogge, MD, private practice in Psychiatry, Kirkland, Washington. Also reviewed byDavid Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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