A 36-year-old man with a pattern of disregard for others, impulsivity, and repeated legal problems is most consistent with which personality disorder?

A 36-year-old man with a pattern of disregard for others, impulsivity, and repeated legal problems is most consistent with which personality disorder?

• A. Antisocial
• B. Avoidant
• C. Narcissistic
• D. Paranoid

Answer: (A)

Recognize antisocial personality disorder, which is defined by a persistent pattern of disregard for and violation of others’ rights, along with impulsivity and irresponsible behavior. The vignette’s combination of ongoing impulsivity, repeated legal problems, and a lack of concern for the consequences fits this pattern, as individuals with antisocial PD often engage in risky or illegal activities without remorse or regard for others. Other listed disorders have different core features: avoidant involves social inhibition and fear of rejection; narcissistic centers on grandiosity and a need for admiration; paranoid features pervasive distrust and suspicion. For an adult diagnosis, there should also be evidence of conduct disorder before age 15, but the described pattern is classic for antisocial personality disorder.

Recognize antisocial personality disorder, which is defined by a persistent pattern of disregard for and violation of others’ rights, along with impulsivity and irresponsible behavior. The vignette’s combination of ongoing impulsivity, repeated legal problems, and a lack of concern for the consequences fits this pattern, as individuals with antisocial PD often engage in risky or illegal activities without remorse or regard for others.

Other listed disorders have different core features: avoidant involves social inhibition and fear of rejection; narcissistic centers on grandiosity and a need for admiration; paranoid features pervasive distrust and suspicion. For an adult diagnosis, there should also be evidence of conduct disorder before age 15, but the described pattern is classic for antisocial personality disorder.