For many, ending a marriage is challenging—but divorcing a spouse with antisocial tendencies can feel almost impossible. If your partner’s disruptive behavior crept into your home, it certainly won’t vanish when the divorce papers arrive. The divorce attorneys at our firm help make it possible. Have questions? Give our firm a call today for a FREE initial case consultation at (858) 345-1720.
Understanding Antisocial Personality Traits
Experts classify both sociopathy and psychopathy under Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) in the DSM-5. While people sometimes use these terms interchangeably, there are key distinctions:
- Sociopaths tend to react impulsively and emotionally. They may lash out when they lose control.
- Psychopaths are often calm, strategic, and skilled at mimicking emotions. They rarely show genuine remorse.
Both profiles share a disregard for others’ rights and social rules. Recognizing these traits can help you set realistic expectations when navigating your case.
Pre-Divorce Checklist: Protect Your Well-Being
- Confirm the Diagnosis: If you suspect your spouse has ASPD, gather any available medical or psychiatric records. Understanding their condition can clarify why they behave irrationally in court.
- Abandon Fairness Myths: Sociopaths and psychopaths aren’t motivated by fairness or compromise. Anticipate their refusal to negotiate in good faith.
- Prioritize Counseling: Therapy isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. If you share children, consider family counseling to safeguard their emotional health.
- Document Everything: Save emails, texts, and voicemails. California requires two-party consent to record conversations—get permission if possible, and keep meticulous records of threats or intimidation.
- Honor Court Orders: Never unilaterally modify agreements on custody or support. Any deviation can be twisted against you.
- Maintain Emotional Control: Sociopathic behavior thrives on provocation. Practice techniques to stay calm, like brief breathing exercises before interactions.
- Retain Specialized Legal Counsel: Look for an attorney experienced with high-conflict personalities. Their expertise will guide you through tactics specifically designed for cases involving ASPD.
Move Forward with Confidence
Divorce is never easy, but knowledge is power and being confident in the process is freeing. By preparing ahead, you can reduce surprises and strengthen your position. If you’re in Carlsbad or San Diego County and facing a high-conflict divorce, call Griffith Young at (858) 345-1720. Schedule a free consultation with John Griffith or one of our dedicated team members. We’ll help you protect your rights—and your peace of mind.
Content originally published in 2017 by Griffith Young. Revised in 2025.