Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)

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As research continues to change from emphasizing treatment to focusing on early identification and prevention, one important disorder to examine is Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD). Early identification and prevention of Antisocial Personality Disorder has implications in improving our criminal justice system as 70% of those in jail experience ASPD. However, the early identification of individuals with ASPD is difficult as most of the diagnostic criteria depends on the individual engaging in nefarious activity. In examining the functional and anatomical differences present in those with ASPD, it became clear that many of these differences could impair scholastic performance, specifically difficulties with cognitive control, attention, …show more content…

More specifically, individuals must meet four diagnostic criteria; A, B, C, and D, established by the DSM-5 in order to receive the diagnosis. Criteria A, is a disregard for and violation of other’s rights since the age of 15, as indicated by one of the following: failure to obey laws and norms by engaging in behavior which results in criminal arrest or would warrant criminal arrest; lying, deception, and manipulation, for profit or self-amusement; impulsive behavior; irritability and aggression manifested as frequently assaulting others or engaging in fighting; blatantly disregarding safety of self and others; a pattern of irresponsibility; and a lack of remorse for actions. Additionally, criterion B states the individual has to be at least 18. Furthermore, Criterion C states they must have a history of Conduct Disorder before the age of 15. Finally, criteria D prohibits a diagnosis if the individual’s behavior is the result of Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). As conduct disorder is the precursor to ASPD, it should come as no surprise that the diagnostic criteria are similar. Specifically, a diagnosis of Conduct Disorder is given to individuals who display at least three traits from any of the following four categories: aggression to people and animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, or serious violation of rules. The diagnostic criteria for both Antisocial Personality Disorder and Conduct Disorder depend on the individual acting antisocially and thus have little utility in early

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