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The topic of personality disorders can be difficult to navigate. In this article, we want to give you both an overview and advice on how to seek help.
What is antisocial personality disorder?
Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a diagnosable condition found in the DSM-5. The hallmarks of antisocial personality disorder include difficulty feeling empathy and remorse, and a disregard for rules, regulations and the rights of others.
It is important to note that not all people with antisocial personality disorder commit crimes or are violent. Antisocial traits vary in intensity among individuals, and some individuals can function relatively well in society. However, there can be problems in relationships and work, often in the longer term.
You have likely heard of the term “psychopath”. It is important to note that this is not a formal psychiatric diagnosis. Instead, this term is used in criminology to describe a particular type of personality trait or behavioural pattern. The diagnosis used in healthcare is antisocial personality disorder, but not all people with psychopathic traits meet the criteria for diagnosis.
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What are personality disorders?
Personality disorders are psychological conditions that affect an individual’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours in a way that often differs significantly from societal norms and expectations. Around 6-15% of the Canadian population has a personality disorder.
What causes antisocial personality disorder?
Antisocial personality disorder results from an interaction of genetic, biological and environmental factors. Although the exact causes are not fully understood, there are several theories and research findings that point to the influence of genetic factors. There is also a neurobiological basis, including an underactive stress response, which may explain a lack of remorse and fear. Growing up with neglect and trauma can also have an impact. It is probably an interaction between both heredity and environment, where an unhealthy environment can also produce the symptoms.
How common is antisocial personality disorder?
According to Statistics Canada, around 6-9% of the Canadian population has antisocial personality disorder. It is thought that around 75% of incarcerated men in Canada have antisocial personality disorder.
Symptoms of antisocial personality disorder
The most common symptoms and characteristics of people with antisocial personality disorder include:
- Superficial charm: An ability to be polite and charming in social settings, often to manipulate or deceive others.
- Delusions of grandeur: An exaggerated sense of self-importance or superiority.
- Pathological lying: A tendency to consistently lie or mislead others.
- Manipulative behaviour: Taking advantage of others for personal gain or pleasure.
- Lack of remorse and regret: A lack of guilt or remorse for actions that harm others.
- Emotional shallowness: A lack of deeper emotional experiences or a real emotional connection with others.
- Lack of empathy: The inability to feel or understand the feelings or needs of others.
- Impulsivity: Difficulty planning ahead and a tendency to act spontaneously without regard to consequences.
- Aggressive or problematic behaviour: Can include physical violence, threats, or other forms of aggressive behaviour.
- Irresponsibility: An inability or unwillingness to meet financial, work or social commitments.
- Risky behaviour: Engaging in risky or dangerous activities, often without regard for personal safety or the safety of others.
- Parasitic lifestyle: Living at the expense of others or taking advantage of others’ hospitality without contributing.
What is the difference between psychopathy and sociopathy?
Neither psychopathy or sociopathy are actual diagnoses, although these terms are still frequently used by the public and in the criminal justice system. What was once described as sociopathy is now antisocial personality disorder. “Psychopathic” traits refer to superficial charm and a lack of empathy, with the term being prevalent in the justice system.
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Assessment for antisocial personality disorder
Personality disorders are usually diagnosed in specialist psychiatry through a personality assessment or through the criminal justice system if the person is in contact with the legal system. For the diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder to be made, symptoms must have been present since childhood/adolescence. Children displaying symptoms consistent with ASPD are often given the diagnosis “conduct disorder”.
It is also important to distinguish substance abuse and neurodevelopmental disorders from personality disorders. People with ADHD can also develop antisocial traits if they punished for their difficulties and symptoms by a less understanding environment. So it is also important that people with ADHD get the right care and treatment early on.
Treatment for antisocial personality disorder
People with antisocial personality disorder rarely seek treatment. This is because they often lack emotional responses of guilt, shame and remorse. Instead, they are often motivated by anger. It is therefore not uncommon for individuals to develop substance use disorders or have involvement with the criminal justice system, and receive care and treatment while incarcerated or getting help with their addiction. Help is available.
Advice for those who know someone with antisocial personality disorder
If you have a close relative with ASPD, you can encourage the person to take responsibility for their actions and seek help. If you are in a relationship with someone who you think has ASPD traits, it is best to seek help and potentially end the relationship to ensure your safety.
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Approaching the topic of personality disorders can be overwhelming, but we’re here to make the difficult easier. When you feel it’s time to talk to a psychologist or therapist, you can easily book a session with us. No matter when you take the step, our experienced team is always ready to help you or your loved ones.
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11 common questions about antisocial personality disorder
What is a personality disorder?
A personality disorder is a persistent pattern of behaviour, worldview and inner experience that is markedly different from what is expected of those around you. This is because personality disorders can affect one’s ability to relate to others and function effectively in everyday life.
Is psychopathy a type of personality disorder?
Psychopathy is not a diagnosis used in psychiatry, but antisocial personality disorder is a diagnosable condition. ASPD is characterized by difficulty experiencing empathy. Individuals with ASPD may also disregard rules, regulations and the rights of others. Help is available.
How is antisocial personality disorder diagnosed?
The diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder is made in a specialist psychiatric or correctional setting. This means that the symptoms must have been present since childhood/adolescence.
What treatment options are available for antisocial personality disorder?
Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, can be used to help people with antisocial personality disorder. It is important to note that people with ASPD rarely seek treatment. This is because they often lack emotional responses of guilt, shame and remorse.
What causes antisocial personality disorder?
ASPD results from an interaction of genetic, biological and environmental factors. There is also a neurobiological basis, including an underactive stress response. Childhood neglect and trauma can also have an impact.
Is there any way to prevent antisocial personality disorder?
There is no surefire way to prevent antisocial personality disorder, but early intervention can help alleviate symptoms. If you have ADHD, proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent you from developing personality disorder traits. It is important to have a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Can you force someone to go to therapy?
No, you can’t force someone to undergo therapeutic treatment. It is rarely a good idea to force someone into therapy. A person needs to understand that they need to work on themselves.
How common is antisocial personality disorder?
According to Statistics Canada, around 6-9% of the Canadian population has antisocial personality disorder. It is thought that around 75% of incarcerated men in Canada have antisocial personality disorder.
What is the difference between psychopathy and sociopathy?
Neither psychopathy or sociopathy are actual diagnoses, although these terms are still frequently used by the public and in the criminal justice system. What was once described as sociopathy is now antisocial personality disorder. “Psychopathic” traits refer to superficial charm and a lack of empathy, with the term being prevalent in the justice system.
Can women have ASPD?
Yes, women can have antisocial personality disorder, but it is more common among men.
How can I help someone close to me who has antisocial personality disorder?
If you have a close relative, you can encourage them to take responsibility for their actions and to seek help. If you are in a relationship with someone who you think has ASPD traits, it is best to seek help and potentially end the relationship to ensure your safety.
Where can I get help?
If you think you may be in need of treatment, you can seek care through your health center and get a referral to psychiatry. We also have licensed psychologists at Lavendla who can help you with an initial assessment as well. If you are experiencing violence or psychological abuse, contact 911 or visit the Government of Canada’s page detailing local resources.
