Antisocial
Personality Disorder or APD is defined by the American Psychiatric Association's
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual on Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV)
as "...a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights
of others that begins in childhood or early adolescence and continues into
adulthood." These individuals may be witty, charming, and fun to be
around; they may also disregard social norms and laws, repeatedly lie, place
others at risk for their own benefit, and demonstrate a profound lack of
remorse. In severe forms it may be referred to as sociopathic personality
disorder or sociopathy. Technically the individual must be at least age
eighteen for a diagnosis of APD to be made. Genetics and other biological factors, brain defects and
injuries during developmental years, and growing up in a traumatic or abusive
environment may be linked with APD. According to WebMD, individuals who break
the law are at higher risk for having APD. For example, as many as 47% of male
inmates and 21% of female inmates have the disorder. Fire-setting and cruelty to animals
during childhood may be seen in the development of APD. Additional co-occurring
disorders and complications may include imprisonment, drug abuse, violence, and
attempted suicide or successful suicide. It is estimated to affect 0.6% of the
population with APD more commonly
diagnosed in males.
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