Rebels Without a Cause: Antisocial Personality Disorder

We’ve all heard (and probably used) the phrase Sociopath. People who are overly angry or manipulative often fit into this category. Prisons are packed full of those with Antisocial Personality Disorder, more commonly known as a Sociopath.

The condition occurs more in men than in women, and is usually comes to the surface in the late teenage years through to the early twenties. Sociopaths are charming and friendly, but also play on the emotions of others, manipulating and attempting to control those around them. People with Antisocial Personality Disorder are also prone to bouts of anger, and have a tendency to be drawn to criminal behaviour.

It could be bar-room brawls, constant lies or frequent stealing that manifests in a Sociopath. While there are conduct tests that can be performed in childhood, most people with this condition have no remorse or regret about the hurtful things they’ve done. Since they see no problems in their behaviour, they don’t seek help, unless they end up in jail and the court forces them into treatment.

Some common indicators of Antisocial Personality Disorder are:

• People who are gregarious, friendly and entertaining. Others are drawn to their banter and charm.

• People who are quick to praise and flatter others, often doing so to manipulate the other person’s feelings and sense of self.

• No respect or regard for the law, or the property of others. This type of person will just as easily break into a strangers house as they would steal money from a friend or family member.

• Lack of concern for the safety and well being of either themselves or those around them. Often perceived as reckless.

• Likely to engage in substance abuse.

• People with this personality disorder are prone to fighting, cheating and lying, often seemingly on a whim.

• Have a tendency to have angry outbursts, or anger control issues, as well as responding to others indignantly or with arrogance when confronted.

• This person rarely shows any type of remorse for things they’ve done or people they’ve hurt. They often become offended at any suggestion of wrongdoing.

It’s fair to say that a Sociopath, or Antisocial Personality Disorder, is a person whose moral filter is not functioning properly. Usually the disorder becomes less apparent as people reach their forties, but early intervention can help those with this condition see that their actions can have negative connotations.

Young men and women, especially in the late teens and early twenties who get into fights, shoplift, party excessively and treat partners in their relationships poorly, are often suffering from Antisocial Personality Disorder. Unfortunately, their behaviour is not often recognized, or considered to be rebellion, or simply a phase. Left untreated, this disorder can lead to a life of criminal behaviour, poor choices and a lack of fulfilling relationships with others.  

If you enjoyed reading this, please stumble it, like it or share it.  Thanks!

More from Heather: 

Me! Me! Me!: Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Five Second Heroes: A Small Good Deed Makes a Big Difference

Woman Pronounced Dead. Oops, She’s Alive

Publish your writing!  Click here to start.