Antisocial Personality Disorder: Etiology, Assessment, and Developmental Trajectories

Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is a complex psychiatric condition characterized by persistent patterns of disregard for social norms and the rights of others. This paper synthesizes research on the etiology, diagnostic criteria, genetic and neurobiological underpinnings, and developmental trajectories of ASPD. Emphasis is placed on the interaction between genetic vulnerability and environmental adversity, as well as the implications of dimensional personality models for understanding antisocial behavior. The paper also explores assessment methods and clinical challenges in treatment, with a view toward early intervention and prevention.