A genetic contribution to antisocial behaviors is strongly supported. Low levels of behavioral inhibition may be mediated by serotonergic dysregulation in the septohippocampal system. Developmental or acquired abnormalities may be present in the prefrontal brain systems and reduced autonomic activity in antisocial personality disorder. This may underlie the low arousal, poor fear conditioning, and decision-making deficits described in antisocial personality disorder. This represents solid evidence of a genetic and therefore biological contribution to this disorder.
A genetic contribution to paranoid traits and a possible genetic link between paranoid personality disorder and schizophrenia exist. Psychosocial theories implicate projection of negative internal feelings and parental modeling. Those theories emphasize the role of nurture in the ongoing discussion of nature versus nurture.
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder is more commonly diagnosed in men than in women. Virtually every study of BPD has revealed that the diagnosis is more common in women than in men; the ratios are as high as 4:1.
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Cite this: Stephen Soreff. Fast Five Quiz: Personality Disorders - Medscape - Jan 09, 2019.
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