Antisocial Personality Disorder

851 Words2 Pages

The goal of this paper is to effectively explain the adverse affects of antisocial personality disorder. This paper will increase understanding on the psychological mindset of those who commit crimes and how it relates to their personality. I have selected two sources on the subject of antisocial personality disorders that will effectively explain an individual’s actions who suffer from this disorder. Finally we will discuss possible treatments for this disorder.

According to Merriam Webster dictionary an antisocial personality disorder or APD is a personality disorder that is characterized by antisocial behavior exhibiting pervasive disregard for and violation of the rights, feelings, and safety of others starting in childhood or the early teenage years and continuing into adulthood. It has been proven that some violent offenders often commit crimes mainly because of their psychological state of mind. Individuals who suffer from antisocial personality disorders generally are intelligent and charming however, they are severely troubled. This disorder prevents any type of relationship to anyone to be created and often find them in trouble. “this often masks a disturbed personality that makes them incapable of forming enduring relationships with others and continually involves them in such deviant behaviors as violence, risk taking, substance abuse, and impulsivity.” (Siegel, 2009 pg.148).

Neurophysiologic conditions are also linked to antisocial behavior and uncontrollable violence committed by an individual who has a neurological defect. Electroencephalograph or EEG measures the impulses that are delivered to the brain. In violent criminals EEG levels were drastically higher than other criminals. “Studies using the EEG find t...

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...dividual’s actions and their feelings. Generally small therapy sessions or one on one session with someone suffering from a personality disorder is the best way to get an individual to confront their disorder. By re-establishing the connection to the patient’s feelings you accomplish the goal of allowing them to create emotional interaction with others. Individuals who suffer from personality disorders have conflict with authority figures consequently provides the explanation of their incessant involvement with criminal activity.

Works Cited

Wahlund, K., & Kristiansson, M. (2006). Offender Characteristics in Lethal Violence With Special Reference to Antisocial and Autistic Personality Traits. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 21(8), 1081-1091. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.

Siegel, L. J. (2009). Criminology (10th ed.). Belmont, CA: Thomson Learning, Inc.

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