What does APD look like?

Antisocial Personality Disorder or APD is defined by the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fiftth edition, 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.