Know anyone with these personality traits – antisocial personality disorder and the perpetrator of elder abuse . . .

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, DSM IV-TR, generally defines antisocial personality disorder in a person who is 18 years old or older as:

A pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others, as indicated by three or more of the following:

1. Failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest.

2. Deception, as indicated by repeatedly lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure.

3. Impulsiveness or failure to plan ahead.

4. Irritability and aggressiveness, as indicated by repeated physical fights or assaults.

5. Reckless disregard for safety of self or others.

6. Consistent irresponsibility, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain consistent work behavior or honor financial obligations.

7. Lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another.

The World Health Organization’s ICD-10 generally defines Dissocial Personality Disorder similar to antisocial personality disorder which is characterized by at least three of the following:

1. Callous unconcern for the feelings of others and lack of the capacity for empathy.

2. Gross and persistent attitude of irresponsibility and disregard for social norms, rules, and obligations.

3. Incapacity to maintain enduring relationships.

4. Very low tolerance to frustration and a low threshold for discharge of aggression, including violence.

5. Incapacity to experience guilt and to profit from experience, particularly punishment.

6. Markedly prone to blame others or to offer plausible rationalizations for the behavior bringing the subject into conflict.

7. Persistent irritability.