A lack of consistency in punishment may lead the child to believe that punishment is random and it may become unclear which behaviors are acceptable or unacceptable. A childhood of abuse and neglect are a key contributing factor in many cases. Everyone involved in a child's life may be a factor in preventing or promoting the development of antisocial behavior (Mayo Foundation, 2006). Consistency in punishment and reward, as well as building the child's self-esteem are all important factors in the development of the disorder. Complications to Treatment

Persons with antisocial personality disorder are at risk of complications that could limit the effectiveness of treatment. Persons with severe forms of antisocial behavior are at increased risk for drug or alcohol abuse, suicide, homicide or committing serious crimes that may result in imprisonment (Mayo Foundation, 2006). There is also an increased chance for comorbidity with other conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. A person may also have other personality disorders in addition to antisocial disorder, such as borderline and narcissistic disorders. The presence of other disorders may complicate the diagnosis and treatment of the antisocial disorder (Mayo Foundation, 2006). In some cases, it may be difficult to distinguish which is the primary and which are secondary disorders.

Treatment Interventions

Antisocial personality disorders are considered to be one of the most difficult of the personality disorders to treat. These patients rarely seek treatment on their own and often...

They are characterized by a refusal to follow treatment programs and to take prescribed medications (Mayo Foundation, 2006). Antipsychotic and antidepressants are the most commonly prescribed medications used to treat the disorder. Psychotherapy can help those with antisocial disorders to act in a way that is more in line with society's expectations. For instance, they may learn appropriate interpersonal skills or some form of moral code (Mayo Foundation, 2006).
The patient and therapist must develop a close relationship in order for most treatment regimes to be successful. Group and family therapy may also be suggested. In cases where self-harm or harms to others is a risk, persons with antisocial personality disorder may need to be placed in a facility where they can received constant supervision (Mayo Foundation, 2006). Often antisocial behavior does not respond to treatment, therefore the key strategy is to reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms. http://www.mayoclinic.com/images/clear.gif

Mayo Foundation (2006). www.mayoclinic.comMayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Retrieved November 12, 2007 at http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/antisocial-personality-disorder/DS00829

American Psychiatric Association: (1994) Diagnostic criteria for 301.7 Antisocial Personality Disorder.

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. Washington, DC, American Psychiatric Association, 1994. Retrieved November 12, 2007 at http://www.behavenet.com/capsules/disorders/antisocialpd.htm