Antisocial is an adjective used to describe behavior, attitudes, or tendencies that are characterized by a lack of interest, motivation, or disregard for social norms, conventions, or interactions. It refers to individuals who exhibit a preference for solitude or isolation and who do not seek or enjoy the company of others.
In psychological terms, antisocial behavior can manifest as an individual's consistent pattern of disregarding the rights and feelings of others, or even displaying acts of aggression or violence. Individuals who are antisocial often display behaviors including but not limited to lying, manipulation, impulsivity, and a lack of remorse for their actions.
Antisocial can also describe a person who is introverted, shy, or experiences social anxiety. It may refer to an individual's inclination to avoid social gatherings, parties, or events due to a preference for a quiet and solitary environment. Such individuals may feel drained by social interactions and find it difficult to initiate or engage in conversations or activities within larger groups.
It is important to note that "antisocial" is distinct from "asocial." While asocial behavior refers to the lack of interest in socializing or interaction, antisocial behavior refers to a disregard for social norms and a disruption of harmonious social functioning.
The word antisocial has its origin in the combination of the prefix anti- and the word social.
The prefix anti- derives from the Greek word anti, meaning against or opposite. It is commonly used to denote opposition or negation.
The word social comes from the Latin word socius, which means companion or partner. Over time, it evolved to refer to interactions and activities among individuals within a community or society.
Combining the prefix anti- with social creates the word antisocial, which essentially means opposed to socializing or averse to being part of a group.