Define: Antisocial Personality Disorder

Antisocial Personality Disorder
Antisocial Personality Disorder
Quick Summary of Antisocial Personality Disorder

Antisocial personality disorder is a serious mental illness that causes individuals to behave in harmful and destructive ways. They may exhibit mean or hurtful behaviour, and may even engage in criminal activities. Individuals with this illness are often referred to as psychopaths or sociopaths, and it is important for them to seek help from a medical professional or therapist.

Full Definition Of Antisocial Personality Disorder

Antisocial personality disorder, also known as psychopathy, is a mental illness characterized by extremely antisocial behaviour that can lead to aggressive, perverted, or criminal actions. Individuals with this disorder may have a history of lying, stealing, and manipulating others for their own benefit, and may lack empathy and disregard the feelings and rights of others. While not all individuals with this disorder will engage in criminal behaviour, their actions can still be harmful to those around them.

Antisocial Personality Disorder FAQ'S

Yes, individuals with Antisocial Personality Disorder can be held legally responsible for their actions. The disorder does not exempt them from the consequences of their behavior.

While Antisocial Personality Disorder can be presented as a defence in a criminal trial, it is rarely successful. Courts generally require a high burden of proof to establish that the disorder directly caused the criminal behavior.

Research suggests that individuals with Antisocial Personality Disorder have an increased risk of engaging in criminal behavior. However, it is important to note that not all individuals with the disorder become criminals, and many factors contribute to criminal behavior.

Antisocial Personality Disorder can be considered as a factor in divorce or child custody disputes. However, it is just one of many factors that the court will consider when making decisions regarding divorce settlements or child custody arrangements.

There is no known cure for Antisocial Personality Disorder. However, certain therapies and interventions can help manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of engaging in harmful behaviors.

Antisocial Personality Disorder is typically diagnosed in individuals who are 18 years or older. However, children who exhibit persistent patterns of behavior consistent with the disorder may be diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, which is often a precursor to Antisocial Personality Disorder.

There is evidence to suggest that Antisocial Personality Disorder may have a genetic component. However, environmental factors also play a significant role in the development of the disorder.

Employers cannot discriminate against individuals solely based on a diagnosis of Antisocial Personality Disorder. However, if the disorder significantly impairs an individual’s ability to perform essential job functions, an employer may have grounds for not hiring or terminating the individual.

The decision to grant or deny a professional license is typically based on an individual’s qualifications and ability to meet the necessary requirements. Antisocial Personality Disorder alone is unlikely to be a sufficient reason for denying someone a professional license.

Involuntary commitment laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally, Antisocial Personality Disorder alone is not sufficient grounds for involuntary commitment. The individual must pose a significant risk of harm to themselves or others, and other criteria must be met as per the specific laws of the jurisdiction.

Related Phrases
No related content found.
Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

Cite Term

To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.

  • Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/antisocial-personality-disorder/
  • Modern Language Association (MLA):Antisocial Personality Disorder. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/antisocial-personality-disorder/.
  • Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Antisocial Personality Disorder. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/antisocial-personality-disorder/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
  • American Psychological Association (APA):Antisocial Personality Disorder. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/antisocial-personality-disorder/
Avatar of DLS Solicitors
DLS Solicitors : Divorce Solicitors

Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.

All author posts