Examining Antisocial Personality and Opioid Use Disorders from a Psychodynamic Perspective

Many crimes are committed by individuals with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), and ASPD and substance use disorders (SUDs) can be a deadly combination. As one often accompanies the other, differential diagnosis is an essential precursor to the treatment process. Differential diagnosis is particularly difficult for two reasons: first, the abuse of substances (legal or illegal) is common among individuals with ASPD, and second, alcohol and drug users often exhibit antisocial behavior that is secondary to their basic problem.