Antisocial behavior
Antisocial behavior (ASB) refers to actions or attitudes that violate societal norms, disregard the rights of others, or cause harm to individuals, communities, or the environment. Examples include aggression, hostility, theft, deceitfulness, vandalism, bullying, and violent criminal acts. While often associated with criminality, ASB can also encompass subtle forms of harm, such as manipulation and duplicity, particularly in adults. ASB spans various psychological, social, and legal contexts rather than being confined to a single diagnostic framework.
ASB is frequently associated with psychiatric conditions, including oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder (CD), antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), and psychopathy or callous-unemotional (CU) traits. ODD and CD are often referred to as disruptive behavioral disorders (DBDs) in children and adolescents. These disorders share symptoms such as impulsivity, irritability, lack of remorse, and aggressive or defiant behavior. Age-specific diagnostic criteria are crucial due to developmental differences between children and adults.
Causes of antisocial behavior:
genetic influences;
neurodevelopmental factors;
environmental influence.
The consequences of antisocial behavior are far-reaching, influencing individuals, victims, and society in profound ways. For individuals engaging in such behavior, the impacts often include a range of psychiatric comorbidities like substance abuse, depression, and anxiety. These individuals frequently face challenges in establishing and maintaining stable relationships, finding consistent employment, and securing housing. For children, antisocial behavior is strongly associated with academic struggles and premature school dropout, setting the stage for long-term difficulties.
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