Antisocial Disorder Since the beginnings of psychiatry in the early 19th century, it has been recognized that there are persons whose persisting antisocial behavior can not be understood in terms of mental disorder or neurotic motivations. The father of French psychiatry, Phillipe Pinel, noted that some people seem to behave crazily without actually being crazy. The German systematisist, like Robert Koch, first coined the term “psychopathic” to describe such phenomenon now known as personality disorders. Webster defines antisocial as “hostile or harmful to organized society being marked by behavior sharply deviating from the social norm.” The diagnostic criteria for antisocial personality are as stands: there us a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others occurring since the age of fifteen years. As indicated by three or more of the following: 1.
Failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest. 2. Deceitfulness, as indicated by repeated lying, uses of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure. 3. Impulsivity or failure to plan ahead. 4.
Irrational ability and aggressiveness, as indicated by repeated physical fights or assaults. 5. Reckless disregard for safety for self or others. 6. Consistent irresponsibility as indicated by repeated failure to sustain constant work behavior or honor financial obligations. 7.
Lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another. Bibliography Black, C. Understanding Psychology, 1992, Ladies Home Journal. pp 15-19.
