Antisocial Personality Disorder

Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by pervasive disregard for and violation of the rights of others, beginning in adolescence or early adulthood. Etiology includes genetic predisposition, neurobiological abnormalities (particularly in prefrontal cortex and amygdala), and adverse environmental influences such as childhood trauma. Clinically, patients exhibit deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, aggressiveness, and failure to conform to social norms. Diagnosis requires assessment of longitudinal behavior patterns and exclusion of other psychiatric disorders. Management is challenging and includes structured psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and risk management strategies. Prognosis is generally guarded, with persistent antisocial behaviors often leading to legal and interpersonal consequences.