People sometimes use the term sociopath to describe an individual with antisocial personality disorder. A person with this disorder shows a lack of concern for the rules and expectations of society, and repeatedly violates the rights of others.
The cause of antisocial personality disorder isn't known. Genetic factors and a history of abuse as a child may play a role. It occurs more often in men than in women.
Symptoms typically appear in childhood. Before age 15, these individuals often display a pattern of lying, breaking the law and substance abuse. As adults, people with this disorder may:
- Repeatedly break the law
- Be unable to sustain long-term relationships
- Be unable to fulfill employment or financial obligations
- Display reckless behavior
- Exhibit aggressive behavior
- Abuse alcohol and drugs
There's no specific treatment that's effective for this disorder. Group counseling may help some people. Treatment of other conditions, such as anxiety, depression and substance abuse, may improve symptoms.
