What Is Antisocial Behavior? Exploring ASPD

Medically reviewed by Julie Dodson, MA, LCSW and Nikki Ciletti, M.Ed, LPC
Updated October 23, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team
Content Warning: Please be advised, the below article might mention trauma-related topics that could be triggering to the reader. Please see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources.
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Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a mental health condition that may include challenges with morality, drug and alcohol use, risky or criminal behavior, and difficulty connecting emotionally, or empathetically, with others. People with ASPD may ignore the rights and feelings of others in their peer group, fail to show guilt and remorse, or manipulate others for personal gain. They may use charming behaviors, and/or lie, to form initial connections. 

Antisocial personality disorder is a mental health condition and is not about being anti-social, shy, or having a preference not to socialize. ASPD may significantly affect the lives of those who experience it, the people who care about them, and, at times, the general public. 

The onset of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) 

Males are generally more likely than females to be diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder, with three males diagnosed for every female. In many cases, signs of ASPD will appear in adolescence or early childhood, although the disorder cannot be diagnosed until an individual is over 18. While it may have the same characteristics as other mental health conditions, such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD), ASPD comes with antisocial behaviors that distinguish it from other behavior and personality disorders. To be diagnosed with ASPD, those affected must show signs of a conduct disorder or trauma before age 15.

Antisocial social personality disorder can make life difficult

What is antisocial behavior in DSM-5?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Fifth Edition (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, breaks the symptoms related to ASPD down into several aspects: 

  1. Engaging in behavior that results in a criminal arrest or would warrant criminal arrest
  2. Lying, deception, and manipulation to obtain profit or for self-amusement
  3. Impulsive behavior
  4. Irritability and aggression that is manifested as frequently assaulting others or engaging in fighting
  5. Blatantly disregarding the safety of self and others
  6. A pattern of irresponsibility
  7. A lack of remorse for actions

What is antisocial behavior in adulthood

As those with ASPD enter adulthood, they may begin exhibiting symptoms of ASPD that are different from those they showed during adolescence. These symptoms may include:

  • Persistent lying
  • Using wit and charm to manipulate others for personal gain 
  • A sense of superiority 
  • Substance use and other risky behaviors
  • Extreme impulsiveness
  • Recurring criminal behavior  
  • Problems with the law
  • Other forms of physical aggression
  • Hostility 
  • Violence 
  • Risk-taking 
  • Physical or verbal abuse in relationships 
  • A lack of empathy

What causes ASPD? 

Although there is no current set "cause" for ASPD, it is thought that several environmental or genetic factors could take part in the development of antisocial behavior. 

Many psychologists believe that early childhood trauma, child abuse, and/or maternal drug use may be a few of the risk factors for developing personality disorders. Studies show that children and adolescents who experienced verbal abuse or trauma were three times more likely to struggle with any personality disorder as an adult, including ASPD. 

Anti-social behaviors associated with ASPD

There are several behaviors and symptoms that those struggling with ASPD may experience. 

Unlawfulness and antisocial behavior

Because of the potential difficulty with morals and social norms associated with ASPD, legal trouble may be common for those living with this condition. The pattern of illegal activity may spiral out of control or worsen as they age. 

A lack of stability in life

The symptoms associated with ASPD may make it difficult for those with ASPD to lead a stable life. A disregard for others and societal standards, impulsiveness, and manipulation for personal gain may make it difficult for individuals to hold a job, have friends to rely on in times of need, and pay bills. Recurring legal troubles may also continually disrupt one's life.

The lack of stability that often comes with ASPD or its behaviors may cause the disorder's symptoms to worsen. A difficulty with socialization, social isolation, or the consequences of one's actions, may cause people living with ASPD to experience anger, loneliness, or worsening self-esteem.  

Absence of remorse

Those with ASPD may have difficulty understanding others' emotions and being able to empathize with, or feel, what someone else feels. If they cannot understand or do not care about, why others are sad or upset, they may experience difficulties feeling a sense of remorse for their actions.

Substance use disorders

Individuals experiencing ASPD may struggle with substance use issues. They may exhibit a disregard for their safety and extreme impulsiveness that may cause difficulties seeing the ramifications of drug use. Additionally, antisocial individuals may turn to drugs and alcohol as a form of self-medication.

Managing antisocial personality disorder

Some research suggests that early intervention may help prevent the development of ASPD in severely antisocial children. However, there are currently no proven treatments for ASPD. That said, individuals living with this condition may be able to take steps to manage their symptoms. Additionally, both medications and therapy may be supportive in managing comorbid mental health conditions.

Treatment for antisocial personality disorder to improve mental health

Knowing or loving someone with ASPD may feel challenging. Even if the affected individual attempts to manage their symptoms, they may exhibit periods of impulsivity, deceit, or a disregard for others' feelings. This can lead to feelings of frustration and stress among their family and friends. The parents of children exhibiting antisocial behavior may also experience feelings of guilt or begin to question their parenting skills. 

The challenges presented by ASPD can feel taxing and overwhelming. While it can be natural to feel like you want to help someone you love, caring for yourself is also essential. 

Online therapy for antisocial personality disorder

Attending in-person therapy appointments may seem overwhelming if you find yourself physically or mentally drained from supporting someone with ASPD. Online therapy to get professional support can be an equally effective means of receiving the professional support you need. Online appointments mean there's no need to drive to an office, and in-platform messaging means you can reach out to your therapist whenever you need. 

If you are an individual with ASPD, you may also find support through online counseling. Counselors are trained in various concerns, including the symptoms and most effective treatment methods for personality disorders. You are not alone.

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Antisocial social personality disorder can make life difficult

Effectiveness of online therapy for mental health issues

Literature reviews show that online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for treating various mental health issues. It could be an effective way to move through emotions, including feelings of isolation, confusion about boundary setting, and acceptance. If you are an individual with ASPD, online therapy has been proven to be effective in helping individuals with personality disorders manage symptoms

Takeaway

Antisocial personality disorder is often characterized by impulsive behavior, little concern for others, and a lack of remorse. The condition may be distressing for those who experience it and those affected by the behaviors of someone with ASPD. 

You are not your behaviors, thoughts, or past. If you are hoping to get support with a personality disorder, speaking with a compassionate counselor is one way to take the first step toward healing.

Target disruptive behavior in therapy
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