How antisocial personality disorder may affect you
If you think you, or someone you know, may have antisocial personality disorder (ASD), here’s some things to look out for. The signs often start in adolescence or early adulthood, and display a pattern of persistent disregard for the rights of people around them.
Common symptoms include:
Persistent violation or exploitation of others' rights - examples include being deceitful, stealing, or manipulation without remorse.
Impulsively acting on urges without considering consequences.
Anger which is uncontrollable, often becoming aggressive - including regularly getting into physical fights or assaulting others, and a consistent pattern of irritability and aggression.
Lack of empathy, which is characterised by an inability to understand or appreciate the feelings of others, and not being remorseful around other’s distress.
Chronic lying, or being deceitful, with the intent to exploit others.
Irresponsibility - consistently failing to honour obligations or commitments.
Being antisocial is often something we joke about, but for some, antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a complex mental health condition that can have a huge impact on relationships, work, and overall lifestyle. In fact, ASPD is particularly challenging as it is characterised by irresponsive and impulsive behaviour that can often lead to committing crimes. However, there is a spectrum that ranges from mild to severe - the most severe may be considered to have psychopathic behaviour.
Triggers and causes of antisocial personality disorder
Like so many other mental health conditions, it is not known why some people develop antisocial personality disorder, but it is thought that both trauma in childhood, as well as genetics may have a part to play.
Children growing up in difficult circumstances, such as abuse, neglect, or unstable home environments, can be more prone to developing antisocial personality disorder. Some common characteristics include:
A troubled and difficult home-life
High levels of conflict in the home
Harsh or inconsistent parenting
Exposure to drug or alcohol addictions
Child services involvement
For those diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder, the likelihood of criminal behaviour is high, as is the misuse of drugs and alcohol. Stable relationships are difficult, and holding down jobs and stable employment. There is also an increased risk of serious injury or death as a result of reckless behaviour.
Help from a psychologist for antisocial personality disorder
While antisocial personality disorder is a challenging disorder to treat, it is able to be managed with consistent effort over time. Often family and friends can take an influential role in getting treatment as you may be reluctant to seek help.
Someone Health psychologists can help with providing:
Assessment - our psychologists conduct a thorough assessment to understand the impact of ASPD in your life
Therapeutic interventions, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), can help with distorted thought patterns and impulsive behaviours.
Anger management techniques can help with strategies to manage anger and aggression in a healthier way.
Social skills training to help with improved interpersonal skills for stronger relationships and better communication.
Emotion regulation can help with techniques to recognise and control emotions more effectively.
Legal and ethical guidance provides support in navigating legal and ethical challenges.
Creating a safe and non-judgemental space for you to explore and address the root causes of reactions and behaviours.
If you, or someone you care about, is struggling with the impact of antisocial personality disorder, our compassionate Someone Health psychologists are here to help. Schedule a consultation in less than ten minutes.
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Frequently asked questions
Is telehealth right for me if I'm having a mental health crisis?
Telehealth works well for mild to moderate mental health concerns. It is not designed for a mental health crisis or an acute episode. Some examples are:
- Psychosis (losing touch with reality, or having thoughts and beliefs that are not based in reality)
- A manic episode (racing thoughts, little need for sleep, and taking big risks)
- A severe eating disorder that needs medical care
- A serious risk of harming yourself or someone else
Because we are a telehealth service, we cannot manage these situations safely. If you are in crisis, please get help in person.
If you are having thoughts of suicide and need urgent support, see your GP. They can assess you and refer you to the right in-person service.
If you feel at risk of acting on these thoughts, or you cannot keep yourself safe, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department. You can also call Lifeline any time on 13 11 14.
Once you are safe and you have the support you need in person, we welcome you to book with us for ongoing care.
How will I know the therapy is working for me?
It will not always be obvious and it could be gradual. But when you start feeling better, then that means that the therapy is working.You'll also be able to see things more clearly as you progress with your talk therapy. Healing, however, is not always so clear-cut. There will always be ups and downs. If that happens, you can talk to your psychologist about your progress and be open with what you're feeling.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Are all your psychologists registered?
Australia has regulatory bodies to ensure we maintain consistent and high standards across the psychology profession.Yes. They are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA), listed with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra), and individually selected and monitored by Someone Health's expert clinical team.
How long does it take to see a psychologist?
It depends on the psychologist you choose and how your sessions are funded.Once you have signed up and we have verified your details, you can choose a psychologist and book a time that suits you. Availability varies by psychologist and funding option, and Find a psychologist shows each psychologist's next available appointment.
Can a psychologist prescribe medication?
Only your GP or a psychiatrist can prescribe medication.Medication can only be prescribed by medical doctors, which includes general practitioners (GPs) and psychiatrists.
If you need the services of a psychiatrist, please visit Call To Mind, a telehealth service specialising in psychiatry.