Sociopathy Articles

Medically reviewed by Melissa Guarnaccia, LCSW

“Sociopathy” and “sociopath” are generally informal terms that can be used to refer to individuals with antisocial personality disorder or ASPD. Neither of these words are clinical terms, nor are they endorsed by prominent mental health organizations like the APA. In general, ASPD is both a clinical term and a diagnosis. People diagnosed with ASPD are sometimes called "sociopaths.” Sociopaths usually lack empathy and often have trouble caring for others. They tend to have little regard for right or wrong, and some can be highly manipulative. These individuals may be harsh and persistent when antagonizing other individuals and can be known for using other people to get what they want. Here, we’ll explore the signs and symptoms of ASPD, its causes and diagnosis, and how to get support through in-person or online therapy. 

Symptoms of antisocial personality disorder

Like any mental health disorder, symptoms can vary from person to person. However, some of the most common symptoms among those with ASPD can include the following:

• Disregard for right and wrong
• Impulsive behavior
• Manipulation of others for personal gain
• Frequent lying
• Trouble with the law
• Violation of the rights of others
• Arrogance
• Abusive behavior in interpersonal relationships
• Irresponsibility in accordance with financial obligations
• Disregard for the safety of self and others

The symptoms of ASPD often begin to appear in childhood or the teenage years and may include:

• Aggression toward people or animals
• Destruction of property
• Deceitful behavior
• Stealing
• Rule violation

People with antisocial personality disorder often have trouble maintaining relationships, and many misuse substances and alcohol.

Sociopathy generally runs on a spectrum. Not everyone with ASPD is violent or abusive; in fact, most are not. Still, some do fall on the more extreme end of the spectrum.

If you or a loved one is witnessing or experiencing any form of abuse, please know that help is available. You can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline anytime at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

Causes of antisocial personality disorder

Unlike psychopathy, antisocial personality disorder is often caused by childhood neglect or abuse. An individual typically develops this condition because they weren't shown how to interact with others or faced maltreatment when they were growing up. These experiences can have a deep influence on a person’s mental health and well-being, potentially leading to the development of ASPD.

Loneliness and antisocial personality disorder

Because people with antisocial personality disorder typically have a hard time understanding the feelings of others, this can make them feel like outcasts from society. Although individuals who have ASPD tend to self-isolate, that doesn't necessarily mean they don’t experience loneliness from time to time. They can and do notice the absence of other human beings. In fact, they might move toward a criminal lifestyle to escape those lonely feelings and try to feel some sense of connection with society.

Getting the right diagnosis

For someone to receive a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder, they must generally see a licensed mental health professional for an evaluation. During the evaluation, the individual’s psychological and social history will usually be considered. The professional performing the assessment may use the criteria from the DSM-5 to assess whether their client has ASPD. Typically, antisocial personality disorder isn't diagnosed before the age of 18.

Receiving treatment for ASPD

It can be imperative to seek treatment to address your symptoms if you believe that you may have antisocial personality disorder. Likewise, if you suspect a loved one has the condition, it can be important to encourage them to get support. 

Due to the nature of ASPD, early intervention and treatment can be crucial. Those who don’t seek help may get in trouble legally or harm their personal or professional relationships. This can deeply impact their quality of life. 

With the help of a mental health professional, people with ASPD can come to understand how their actions affect others and learn to make healthier choices. A professional may prescribe medication to treat ASPD and other co-occurring conditions. They are also likely to use talk therapy. Used together, these two interventions can lead to positive outcomes for the individual with ASPD. Never start or stop any form of medication without the guidance of a licensed medical professional.

Benefits of online therapy

Whether you suspect you have ASPD or know someone who might have the disorder, getting help can be essential. However, finding a therapist who specializes in personality disorders can be difficult, especially if you live in a rural area or have a busy schedule that limits your options for therapy. One potential alternative is finding a provider through an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. Here, you can connect with a professional from our extensive network who meets your needs and preferences. There’s generally no need to leave your home to attend appointments, which may make it easier to get the help you deserve.

Effectiveness of online therapy 

While more research may be needed regarding the efficacy of online therapy for ASPD, existing research has demonstrated the power of online therapy in addressing various personality disorders. In one review, researchers assessed several different online interventions and found that three of them successfully decreased the symptoms of borderline personality disorder among participants with this diagnosis.

Takeaway

Sociopathy can be seen as an unofficial term for antisocial personality disorder. ASPD generally runs on a spectrum and can affect people differently, making it crucial for people with symptoms of this disorder to find appropriate support. While a diagnosis of a personality disorder may sound intimidating, having an explanation for certain symptoms can be refreshing. If you’d like to learn more about ASPD, you might consider reading through some of the articles in this section. However, if you’re seeking more personalized guidance and support, connecting with a BetterHelp therapist online could be a useful next step.