Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Barkha ChikaraChief Medical Officer, MD (Psychiatry) from NIMHANS · Last reviewed October 2026Antisocial personality disorder is a lasting pattern, starting in adolescence, of disregarding other people's rights, rules and safety, with deceitfulness, impulsivity and little remorse. It is often seen with substance use. It is hard to treat, but support can reduce harm, especially when someone chooses help.
About 1 in 10 adults in India lives with a mental disorder (National Mental Health Survey, 2015-16). You are not alone.
At a glance
How it is usually treated
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Mentalization-Based Treatment
- Addressing co-occurring substance use
- Schema Therapy
Where to start
A free pre-consultation call, then a video assessment with a psychiatrist. In danger? Call 112, or Tele-MANAS on 14416.
Book your free pre-consultation callRegistered clinicians: psychiatrists with their State Medical Council, psychologists with the Rehabilitation Council of India.
Signs
Tick any that feel familiar. This is not a diagnosis, only a clinician can assess you.
0 ticked. If these have been with you for a while, a free pre-consultation call is a good next step.
Book your free pre-consultation callHow people often describe it
- “I often break rules and get into trouble”
- “I act without thinking of the consequences”
- “People say I do not show guilt”
- “My relationships and work keep falling apart”
People who live with antisocial personality disorder may also notice substance use, conduct difficulties or depression. If any of these sound familiar, mention them to your clinician so your plan can cover them.
When to get help soon
If anyone is at risk of harm, call 112. Tele-MANAS is on 14416 for free support at any hour.
How it is diagnosed
A psychiatrist or psychologist reviews the history from adolescence, including conduct and relationships, and checks for substance use, ADHD, trauma and other conditions. It cannot be diagnosed before age 18.
Treatment and support
- CBT focused on behaviour and consequences
- Mentalization-based therapy
- Treating co-occurring substance use
- Family guidance and clear boundaries
- Support for any depression or anxiety
How Mindly helps
Mindly's psychiatrists assess and support people who choose to seek help, and guide families. All care is online, by video.
Your first appointment
A psychiatrist takes time to understand long-standing patterns in relationships, emotions and stress, and how they affect your life now.
Who is involved
Longer-term therapy with a clinical psychologist is often central, with a psychiatrist overseeing the overall plan.
Between sessions
Progress is gradual, and reviews are steady and non-judgemental.
What to expect
- Free pre-consultation callWe take your history and details, and match you with the right clinician.
- First consultationA video call in your language, with a clinician who already has your report.
- Your planYour clinician agrees a plan with you: therapy, medicine or both, as suits you.
- Follow-up reviewsRegular check-ins, and your plan is adjusted as you recover.
- Staying wellSupport to keep you well and catch early signs of a setback.
Every Mindly plan includes a second opinion from our Chief Medical Officer, a diagnosis-first approach and regular tracking of your recovery. How Mindly care works
Book your free pre-consultation callYour privacy and confidentiality. What you share with Mindly Health stays between you and your care team. Your conversations, reports and messages are treated as confidential and shared only with the team members involved in your care, apart from the limited cases where the law requires it or someone's safety is at serious risk. Read our Privacy Policy and your rights under the Mental Healthcare Act.
Common questions
Is antisocial personality disorder the same as psychopathy?
No. They overlap, but psychopathy is not an official diagnosis and describes a particular set of traits. ASPD is a diagnosis.
Can it be treated?
Treatment is difficult and works best when the person is motivated. Substance use and related problems can be addressed.
What should families do?
Set clear boundaries, protect yourself and seek support.
Clinicians with a focus in this area
Ms. Kamakshi SabharwalClinical Psychologist
Muskan Jain DesaiClinical Psychologist
Dr. Divya GurunathanPsychiatrist - Women's Mental Health & Child Psychiatry
Ms. Janvi KhokharClinical Psychologist
Dr. Pooja RaniPsychiatrist
Online care in your city
Every consultation is by video, from wherever you are. Choose your city to see how it works.