Do you know someone who is just plain mean? They seem to ignore everyone’s feelings or do not notice that they exist. Well, there might be a disorder for that. Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is a complex mental health issue that displays in actions that seem cruel.
It starts with a lack of empathy. But it’s not exactly “mean.” For a person’s actions to be classified as mean, they typically must be intentional. A person with ASPD mainly only acts for their good (not necessarily to harm others). Tough to quantify for sure. But here is an example to help clarify.
Meet John, a person with ASPD:
Scenario: John’s Co-Worker’s Promotion
John’s company recently posted a potential promotion. John knows he is a candidate for the raise but is not alone. So is Erik. They have similar qualifications, but Erik tends to be friendlier and more helpful to co-workers. Here are some tactics that John may employ consistent with ASPD to get the edge on Erik.
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- Manipulation: John decides to spread rumors about Erik. Instead of working hard and trying to stand out as the best option, he tries to manipulate the situation. He says Erik plays solitaire at his desk and leaves early most afternoons.
- Deceitfulness: John has no problem lying to Erik when he approaches him. He also lies to the supervisor about the rumors when they are brought up in a non-formal way.
- Lack of Empathy: John has a single focus: getting that promotion. He’s not aware that the rumors are causing harm to someone else. He uses the tactics to get what he wants.
- Aggressiveness: The attack on Erik becomes more aggressive—in team meetings, John attacks Erik’s actions, makes rude comments when Erik contributes, and even actively ignores his input.
- Irresponsibility: In pursuit of the promotion, John starts neglecting some of his projects in his focus to impress others. Daily work may fall to colleagues as his only goal is to get the attention of the higher-ups making the promotion decision.
ASPD Symptoms
People with this type of personality disorder often display a lack of empathy, impulsive tendencies, and a disregard for social rules. They may lie or act impulsively to get what they want. The key to better understanding a person with antisocial personality disorder is to understand that they may not fully grasp the emotional impact of their actions. John doesn’t know or comprehend that Erik is deeply wounded by his actions. A person with ASPD has tunnel vision on their own needs, desires, or immediate gratification.
This typically also means little (or no) remorse or guilt.
Where Does ASPD Come From?
Mental health disorders are typically difficult to attribute to a single factor. Usually, multiple factors are in play. This is true with ASPD, as well. Some contributing elements may be genetics, childhood experiences (neglect, abuse, or inconsistent parenting), and even growing up in a high-stress or violent environment can influence the emergence of the disorder. Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is a complex mental health condition with origins rooted in a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors.
What to Do About It
Personality disorders such as antisocial personality disorder are typically considered long-term and enduring. These are not illnesses that can be “cured” in the traditional sense. But you can learn to manage them and live in a way that they lose the power to control you.
Treatment for personality disorders often involves psychotherapy or talk therapy. Various options, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative Therapy, can help address the core issues and dysfunctional patterns associated with the disorder.
IOP for ASPD
One treatment option that may be particularly beneficial for individuals with ASPD is a Mental Health Intensive Outpatient Program in Orange County. The IOP at Story Wellness offers a structured and supportive environment. The goal is to help people address root issues, symptoms, and behaviors and learn practical skills to manage their actions.
The point is there is hope for people with personality disorders. Call Story Wellness today if you would like to talk to a mental health professional about ASPD or any other mental health issue or treatment. Our free consultation is designed to help you find clarity and a course of action to give you direction for lasting health and wellness. Call today: 866-476-2823.
