Causes

This disorder is caused by a combination of genetic (inherited) factors and the person’s environment, especially the family environment. Researchers believe that biological factors may contribute, such as abnormal chemistry in the nervous system and impairment in the parts of the brain that affect judgment, decision-making, planning, and impulsive and aggressive behavior.

Prefrontal Cortex

This area of the brain is thought to be responsible for behavior including appropriate social behavior, judgement, and impulse control. Antisocial personality disorder is thought to develop from chemical imbalances in specific areas of the brain such as this.

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Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. The following factors increase the chance of developing antisocial personality disorder:

• Family history of the disorder
• Family history of substance abuse disorders