Navigating Antisocial Behavior: A Journey of Self-Improvement

Can you self-correct your antisocial personality? To a certain extent, yes, but it requires understanding that it's a core aspect of who you are and not something that will change easily or definitively. This journey involves recognizing that behavior can be controlled consciously, but it reverts to its natural state when the focus wanes.

At the age of 17, you stand at a pivotal moment in your life. Your brain continues to develop until you reach around 25 years old, during which time your behavior might appear similar to antisocial conditions like ASPD, sociopathy, or psychopathy. However, before the age of 25, these behaviors should be seen with caution, as they are not definitive indicators of these conditions. Your brain develops from the back to the front, with the areas responsible for emotional reasoning, understanding consequences, and empathy being the last to mature.

Understanding the Evolution of Behavior

During your formative years, your behavior can closely mimic conditions such as psychopathy, sociopathy, or narcissism, but these are only temporary unless your brain fails to fully mature in these critical areas. Psychopathy, for example, affects approximately 0.75-1% of the population, which is a minuscule percentage compared to the general population.

If you identify as having psychopathic traits, your future choices are ultimately yours to make. These conditions do not possess the power to dictate behavior; you decide how you choose to act. While these conditions might make it easier to engage in certain behaviors, they do not provide an excuse or permission for poor behavior. Nevertheless, it is easier to allow oneself to be swayed by these traits, understanding that the consequences are borne by you alone. I learned this the hard way, paying the price for my actions and recognizing the importance of making smarter choices.

Strategies for Long-term Behavioral Change

When you reach your early twenties, your emotional reasoning centers will likely mature, and you will find it easier to navigate these behaviors. However, there is a small chance that this process might not occur fully. If this is the case, you must decide what behaviors you are willing to accept as part of your identity. Consistency is key, as making these decisions and sticking to them can lead to significant personal growth and well-being.

Feeding your neurons at this stage is crucial, as what you reinforce is what will become your default behavior. Acting empathetically might feel unnatural, but it can become a habit and a cornerstone for a healthier future. Whether you are psychopathic or not, establishing a foundation of empathetic behavior can significantly impact your long-term well-being.

The Importance of Self-Determination

Ultimately, the choices you make are yours and yours alone. While it might be challenging to say "no" to certain behaviors, doing so can serve your self-interests in the long run. This self-repudiation allows you to take control of your life and make meaningful improvements. The alternative, such as imprisonment, is not attractive, as it is a dull and restricting experience.

Remember, no one else can make these choices for you. By deciding to act in a manner that respects your values and boundaries, you can create a fulfilling and meaningful life. This journey of self-correction is not easy, but it is worth the effort. The seeds you plant now can bloom into a healthier, more empathetic, and more fulfilled individual.