What behavior is most characteristic of antisocial personality disorder?

• A. Excessive empathy
• B. Serial lies and manipulation
• C. Deceit and manipulation
• D. Charming and seductive

Answer: (C)

Antisocial personality disorder centers on an interpersonal style built around deceit and manipulation to get what one wants, often with little regard for others’ rights or well-being. People with this pattern may lie repeatedly, manipulate others, and use charm as a means to exploit people for personal gain, all while showing little to no remorse. That persistent use of deceit and manipulation best captures the core way they interact with others.

Excessive empathy is not typical, since a hallmark is a pronounced lack of empathy and disregard for others. While someone with this disorder can be superficially charming or seductive, that charm serves as a tool for manipulation rather than being the defining trait.