For many of us, the word “sociopath” conjures up images of crime shows and enigmatic figures. In reality, sociopathy is another word for antisocial personality disorder. This mental disorder can cause people to engage in behaviors like narcissistic abuse, disregarding the rules of society and violating the rights of others. 

Sociopathy can manifest in several ways, including manipulating others through deceit, dangerous behavior, and impulsive behavior. People can often start to show the symptoms of this disorder before the age of 15, and they can continue into adulthood. 

What is a Personality Disorder?

A person’s personality is their unique way of thinking, feeling, and reacting to situations in life. A personality disorder is generally defined as a rigid and harmful pattern of thinking, feeling, and behaving that deviates from expected culture, makes it difficult to function, and lasts for a long time. 

The nuances of personality and the factors that shape it are not always well understood. The science on the subject continues to develop. Given that one of the criteria for personality disorders is a deviation from expected patterns, it is important to keep in mind that many behaviors now considered normal, such as homosexuality or women breaking restrictive societal rules, have been considered mental disorders in the past. When evaluating if something is a disordered behavior, it is critical to consult professionals and consider whether the behavior harms the person experiencing it or others. 

There are many different types of personality disorders, which can affect the way people think about themselves and others and their emotional responses, relationships, and behavior. People experiencing personality disorders can often be subject to negative stereotypes and stigmas. Because of this, it is essential to critically examine the information you find on this subject and keep an open mind. 

Causes of Antisocial Personality Disorder

The exact causes of antisocial personality disorder are unknown and can differ depending on the person. Personality can be shaped by various factors, including biological factors, processes of brain development, societal factors, and life experiences. 

Traumatic life experiences can often put people at a higher risk of developing various personality disorders. In addition, a family history of personality disorders or other mental health disorders can indicate an increased risk of developing personality disorders. 

How to Determine if Someone Has Antisocial Personality Disorder 

It can be difficult to determine if a person has antisocial personality disorder by observing their behavior. Symptoms of antisocial personality disorder can often overlap with those of other mental health disorders or maladaptive behavioral patterns. 

While the internet is full of symptoms and criteria for diagnosing just about anything, it’s important not to jump to conclusions. Treatment based on an incorrect diagnosis can have severe and long-term impacts on a person’s health. Make sure to think critically and carefully, and consult mental health professionals before diagnosing. 

Possible Treatments

Although every case is different, counseling, therapy, and other mental health treatments can be effective for people experiencing antisocial personality disorder. Psychotherapy can help people experiencing mental disorders to understand their feelings and behaviors and talk about their experiences. Over time, this can help people gain more agency over their thought and behavioral patterns, allowing for long-term positive changes. 

In addition to professional treatment, practicing healthy coping strategies can also be helpful for those experiencing personality disorders. This can include learning more about the condition they are experiencing, using relaxation and stress management techniques, and joining support groups with others who face similar challenges. As with many other mental health challenges, having a solid network of friends and family support can be critical for someone experiencing a personality disorder. 

About the author:

Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.