Being antisocial is not necessarily abnormal. Not enjoying the company of others is actually a description of other personality disorders more accurately than Antisocial Personality Disorder.

The term ‘antisocial’ in this context refers to a person’s being against the well being of the social community rather than being against socializing with them.

Certainly the mindset would lend itself to making one having no desire to socialize, however.

Antisocial Personality Disorder is a serious threat to the health and well being of the sufferer as well as to those around that person. Unlike most personality disorders, Antisocial Personality Disorder can have severe consequences, if not dealt with in a very rigorous manner.

A Deeper Meaning of Antisocial

Instead of just referring to the avoidance of social company, the antisocial part of Antisocial Personality Disorder is much more aggressive. The person with Antisocial Personality Disorder has no consideration for normal social rules. He is aggressive and even reckless so as to put himself and others into harm’s way.

Relationships may be a part of the person’s life, but he does not exercise care with those either.

Typical activities that a person with this disorder may engage in would be uncomfortably risky for most people. Drug dealing and use, unsafe sex, reckless driving and other criminal activities are not abnormal in the life of this kind of person. He is unconcerned with his own safety.

Most people with the disorder die early in life.

The person with Antisocial Personality Disorder is also unconcerned with the safety or rights of others.

Even though he may have an attractive exterior, he will quickly and thoughtlessly use others for his own personal gain or entertainment. Stealing from others or hurting them emotionally or physically is not a cause for remorse.

In general, the person with Antisocial Personality Disorder is interested in gaining enjoyment out of life by means of dangerous and hurtful activities. Lying is almost the natural and normal form of communication for this person.

Symptoms

The person with Antisocial Personality Disorder has several antisocial qualities. They begin at a young age and continue consistently throughout life.

The most significant change in behavior is an increase in recklessness and dangerousness of the crimes. Having at least three of the following symptoms may indicate the presence of the disorder.

1. Illegal activities are repeated.
2. Dishonesty in words or actions is repeated
3. Impulsivness and lack of planning is typical.
4. Physical fights are repeated.
5. Safety of self and of others is not a concern.
6. Debt is recurring and there is no financial stability from a regular job.
7. Remorse is not felt over hurtful actions.

Treatment

Psychiatrists are usually unable to treat Antisocial Personality Disorder. Healing and change is in the hands of the person who is acting out.

They have to start caring about the consequences of their actions. God has changed some lives and brought life-saving results. Sometimes, people grow out of their aggressive tendencies.

Many times, jail time is the best addition of security for those suffering from Antisocial Personality Disorder.

Sources for this article include: Frances, Allen MD and First, Michael B. MD. Your Mental Health: A Layman’s Guide to the Psychiatrist’s Bible. New York: Scribner, 1998.

Antisocial Personality Disorder

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