Posted by Brian (obsessive comp.) C. on May 24, 2000 at 22:26:32:
In Reply to: sociopath definition posted by Jimeny on May 24, 2000 at 09:58:01:
> A closer fit...draw your own conclusions folks
>
> Antisocial Personality Disorder is also known as psychopathy or
> sociopathy. Individuals with this disorder have little regard for the
> feeling and welfare of others. As a clinical diagnosis it is usually
> limited to those over age 18. It can be diagnosed in younger people
> if the they commit isolated antisocial acts and do not show signs of
> another mental disorder.
> Antisocial Personality Disorder is chronic, beginning in adolescence
> and continuing throughout adulthood. There are ten general
> symptoms:
> not learning from experience
> no sense of responsibility
> inability to form meaningful relationships
> inability to control impulses
> lack of moral sense
> chronically antisocial behavior
> no change in behavior after punishment
> emotional immaturity
> lack of guilt
> self-centeredness
> People with this disorder may exhibit criminal behavior. They may
> not work. If they do work, they are frequently absent or may quit
> suddenly. They do not consider other people's wishes, welfare or
> rights. They can be manipulative and may lie to gain personal
> pleasure or profit. They may default on loans, fail to provide child
> support, or fail to care for their dependents adequately. High risk
> sexual behavior and substance abuse are common. Impulsiveness,
> failure to plan ahead, aggressiveness, irritability, irresponsibility,
> and a reckless disregard for their own safety and the safety of
> others are traits of the antisocial personality.
> Socioeconomic status, gender, and genetic factors play a role.
> Males are more likely to be antisocial than females. Those from
> lower socioeconomic groups are more susceptible. A family history
> of the disorder puts one at higher risk.
> There are many theories about the cause of Antisocial Personality
> Disorder including experiencing neglectful parenting as a child, low
> levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, and belief that
> antisocial behavior is justified because of difficult circumstances.
> Psychotherapy, group therapy, and family therapy are common
> treatments. The effects of medical treatment are inconclusive.
> Unfortunately, most people with Antisocial Personality Disorder
> reject treatment. Therefore, recovery rates are low.