Does Antisocial Personality Disorder Mean I Don't Like Being Around People?

Does Antisocial Personality Disorder Mean I Have Trouble Being Around People?

When people hear "antisocial," it's common to think of someone who’s shy, avoids others, or prefers to be alone. But when it comes to Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) as defined by the DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision), that interpretation doesn’t quite fit. In fact, ASPD isn’t about social anxiety or discomfort around people — it’s about something very different.

So, let’s break it down: Does having ASPD mean you have problems being around people?

The Short Answer: Not necessarily.

What ASPD Actually Means in the DSM-5-TR

Antisocial Personality Disorder is defined by a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others. This pattern usually begins in childhood or early adolescence and continues into adulthood. Here are some of the key traits or behaviors the DSM-5-TR looks for:

• Repeatedly breaking the law

  
  

• Deceitfulness (lying, conning others for personal profit or pleasure)

  
  

• Impulsivity and failure to plan ahead

  
  

• Irritability and aggressiveness (e.g., repeated physical fights)

  
  

• Reckless disregard for the safety of self or others

  
  

• Consistent irresponsibility (e.g., poor work behavior, not honoring financial obligations)

  
  

• Lack of remorse after hurting others

A person must be at least 18 years old and have a history of Conduct Disorder before age 15 to be diagnosed with ASPD.

Being “Antisocial” Doesn’t Mean You’re Shy

The confusion often comes from the word antisocial. In everyday language, it can mean someone who avoids social situations or has trouble connecting. But in clinical terms, ASPD refers to anti-societal behavior — actions that go against the rules, norms, and rights that hold society together.

Many people with ASPD can actually be very social, charming, or manipulative. They may interact with others frequently — but those interactions are often marked by exploitation, dishonesty, or conflict.

So, Do People With ASPD Have Trouble Being Around People?

Here’s the nuance:

• They may not avoid people. In fact, they may seek out others for personal gain.

  
  

• They may not feel uncomfortable around people. Unlike someone with social anxiety, a person with ASPD may feel confident or even dominant in social settings.

  
  

• But their relationships are often shallow or exploitative. Trouble “being around people” isn’t the issue — it’s trouble with empathy, connection, and treating others with respect or compassion.

  
  

Misdiagnosis and Stereotypes

Because of the term “antisocial,” ASPD is often misunderstood. It’s sometimes confused with:

• Social Anxiety Disorder (where people fear social situations)

  
  

• Avoidant Personality Disorder (marked by social inhibition and feelings of inadequacy)

  
  

• Schizoid Personality Disorder (involving detachment from relationships and limited emotional expression)

  
  

These are very different conditions.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been diagnosed with ASPD — or suspect you might meet some of the criteria — it’s important to understand what the diagnosis really means. It’s not about being shy, withdrawn, or preferring solitude. It’s about how you relate to others on a deeper level — particularly in terms of empathy, responsibility, and respect for rules and boundaries.

If you’re concerned about your behavior, relationships, or mental health, reaching out to a licensed therapist or mental health professional is a good first step. Labels can be clarifying, but they’re just one part of the bigger picture of who you are — and change is always possible with the right support.