Antisocial Personality Disorder

Question 1

Which of the following describes an antisocial personality disorder diagnostic symptom?

Accepted Answer

Deceitfulness

Answer

Deceitfulness is a core diagnostic symptom of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD). Individuals with ASPD often engage in repeated lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure, demonstrating a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others. This behavior is central to the disorder's diagnostic criteria.

Question 2

What would a person with this disorder's response be if they took the Thematic Apperception Test?

Accepted Answer

A childish theme in which the hero does whatever he wants.

Answer

Individuals with Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) often exhibit a lack of empathy, impulsivity, and a disregard for rules and consequences. On a projective test like the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), their responses might reflect these traits, presenting themes where a character acts on desires without considering others or societal norms, often in a self-serving or immature manner. This reflects their characteristic egocentricity and disregard for social constraints.

Question 3

Which of the following statements about the diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder is correct?

Accepted Answer

Males are more likely to be affected than females.

Answer

Epidemiological studies consistently show that Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is diagnosed significantly more often in males than in females. While the exact ratio can vary, males are generally estimated to be 3 to 5 times more likely to be affected by ASPD. This gender disparity is a well-established finding in mental health research.

Question 4

Which of the following is an indication that a child may develop an antisocial personality disorder?

Accepted Answer

Animal cruelty

Answer

Animal cruelty during childhood is a significant predictor and a common indicator of conduct disorder, which is a precursor to Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD). This behavior demonstrates a lack of empathy, disregard for the suffering of others, and a propensity for aggression, all of which are core features of ASPD. It signals a serious behavioral problem that warrants intervention.

Question 5

What theories did Hans Eysenck have about the etiology of antisocial personality disorder?

Accepted Answer

It could be linked to a sluggish autonomic nervous system.

Answer

Hans Eysenck's theory on antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) proposed that individuals with this disorder have a less reactive, or 'sluggish,' autonomic nervous system. This reduced physiological arousal means they are less susceptible to fear and anxiety, making them less likely to learn from punishment or social conditioning. This biological predisposition contributes to their impulsive, risk-taking, and remorseless behaviors characteristic of ASPD.

Personality Test Practice Test

Personality Test Practice Test

Antisocial Personality Disorder