Many people and their families are affected by antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). Such a condition may be described as a manifestation of chronic maladaptive personality types that impair a person’s functioning (Bobadilla et al., 2017). In addition, people who are diagnosed with ASPD are not able to fulfill their social duties and may engage in criminal behavior (Bobadilla et al., 2017). To describe the characteristics of ASPD, this paper focuses on the controversy, strategies, and legal considerations of the disorder by using scientific research and personal beliefs.
Controversy
Most of the controversy that surrounds ASPD focuses on the etiology of the disorder. According to research, the primary cause of the disorder is adverse childhood experiences (DeLisi et al., 2019). However, some experts argue that harmful personality traits primarily originate from childhood psychopathology (DeLisi et al., 2019). A number of studies have been conducted to investigate the links between unpleasant childhood events and ASPD, with various degrees of success (DeLisi et al., 2019). However, the findings do not provide a clear explanation for the origins of ASPD, leaving open the question of whether the condition is produced by experience or by physiological abnormalities.
Personal Beliefs
In my opinion, the disorder requires further research and more scientific data. I believe that people with ASPD struggle to adhere to social standards and should not be diagnosed in patients younger than 18 years old. Accordingly, diagnostic manuals suggest that to be eligible for a diagnosis, a person’s age must reach 18 years, and they must provide evidence of the conduct disorder (American Psychiatric Association, 2013, as cited in DeLisi et al., 2019). Additionally, I believe that common traits of ASPD may include aggression and lawful behavior. According to research, ASPD is often defined as a failure to follow cultural standards of lawful conduct (DeLisi et al., 2019). Furthermore, the disorder is frequently associated with a lack of remorse. (Bobadilla et al., 2017). Therefore, the research findings serve as the foundation of my views on ASPD.
Therapeutic Relationship
An effective strategy for maintaining the therapeutic relationship with a patient should involve open discussions and adhering to medication prescriptions. For patients with ASPD, therapies that rely on the creation of a strong therapeutic connection are less successful (Bobadilla et al., 2017). Therefore, therapy of diagnosed people should not be based on personal relationships. Instead, therapists should utilize strict measures that guarantee prolonged medication. Such strategies may include creating a plan with timelines and obtaining official written consent. Patients can create a healthier and more successful bond with their physician by actively addressing relevant actions and measures.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Legal and ethical issues should also be considered during therapeutic practice. Since personality disorder is a comorbid illness, finding direct causes is difficult, which leads to less approval by the legal system (Johnson & Elbogen, 2022). In addition, within the judicial system, ASPD too closely resembles a generic understanding of crime (Johnson & Elbogen, 2022). From an ethical perspective, people with personality disorders are often considered to be able to make a free choice (Johnson & Elbogen, 2022). It is critical to approach the disease with such considerations since treatment approaches frequently result in legal difficulties and lawsuits.
To comprehend ASPD, specialists should thoroughly evaluate all of the significant elements associated with the condition. The causes of the disorder often result in discussions and debates. Personal beliefs should also constitute a part of a successful analysis of the disorder. Therapeutic relationships should be based on professionalism and appropriate measures. Furthermore, physicians should consider the legal aspects of the problem to respond to any potential complications.
References
Bobadilla, L., Kurkoske, M., & Taylor, J. (2017). Antisocial and narcissistic personality disorder. Reference Module in Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Psychology. Web.
DeLisi, M., Drury, A. J., & Elbert, M. J. (2019). The etiology of antisocial personality disorder: The differential roles of adverse childhood experiences and childhood psychopathology. Comprehensive Psychiatry, 92, 1–6. Web.
Johnson, S. C., & Elbogen, E. B. (2022). Personality disorders at the interface of psychiatry and the law: Legal use and clinical classification.Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, (15)2, 203-211. Web.