Antisocial personality, also known as psychopathy or sociopathy, is a disorder in which the person does not distinguish between right and wrong and ignores the rights and feelings of others. The prevalence is 3% in the general population; it is more common in males than in females and usually appears in adolescence or early adulthood.
The causes are complex and multifactorial, including genetic, environmental and psychological factors.
The most common symptoms include noncompliance with social and legal norms, lack of empathy, recklessness, impulsivity, manipulation and deception. People with antisocial personality disorder have problems maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships and may have a tendency toward violence.
Diagnosis is reached via a complete medical history obtained by a psychiatrist or psychologist, who confirms that it meets the DSM V classification criteria. In addition, laboratory tests and physical examinations may be performed to rule out other medical conditions that may be contributing to the symptoms.
Treatment includes psychotherapy and medication to treat the symptoms of anxiety and associated depression.
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