Name of the Condition

• Adult Antisocial Behavior
• Also known as: Anti-social behavior in adults

Summary

Adult antisocial behavior refers to a pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others. It often involves repetitive lying, stealing, and aggressive acts and is characterized by a lack of empathy or remorse. Unlike a formal psychiatric diagnosis, it is categorized as a behavioral issue.

Causes

The exact causes of adult antisocial behavior are not well-defined but may include:

• Genetic predispositions
• Environmental influences during childhood
• History of conduct disorder or similar behaviors in childhood or adolescence

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase the likelihood of developing adult antisocial behavior include:

• A family history of mental health disorders or antisocial tendencies
• Exposure to violence or trauma during formative years
• Substance abuse

Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent lying or deceit
• Disregard for the safety of self or others
• Aggressiveness or irritability
• Lack of remorse after harming others

Diagnosis

Diagnosis may involve:

• Comprehensive psychological assessment
• Interviews with the individual and family members
• Review of the person's behavioral history

Treatment Options

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to develop healthier thought patterns and behaviors.
• Medications: There are no specific drugs for antisocial behavior, but medications like mood stabilizers or antipsychotics might help manage certain symptoms.
• Rehabilitation programs: Focused on behavioral modification and social skills training.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The outlook varies; some may improve with treatment, while others might experience chronic issues.
• Regular follow-up is essential to modify treatment plans and address any emerging issues.

Complications

Potential complications include:

• Relationship difficulties
• Legal problems due to criminal behavior
• Substance abuse issues

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Encouraging a supportive environment during childhood may prevent antisocial behaviors.
• Engagement in community activities and healthy peer interactions can also be beneficial.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If you observe signs of persistent antisocial behavior, it's important to seek mental health support to prevent further complications.

Additional Resources

• American Psychological Association (APA)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure you differentiate between antisocial behavior as a clinical diagnosis (e.g., Antisocial Personality Disorder) and general adult antisocial behavior – code Z72.811 pertains to the latter.
• Verify documentation to avoid confusing with personality disorders, which may require different codes.