Which of the following is a hallmark feature of antisocial personality disorder?

• A. Disregard for the rights of others
• B. Excessive need for admiration
• C. Extreme fear of social situations
• D. Recurrent panic attacks

Answer: (A)

At the heart of antisocial personality disorder is a persistent pattern of disregarding and violating others' rights. This shows up through deceit, manipulation, impulsivity, irritability or aggression, reckless disregard for safety, and a consistent lack of remorse after harming others. Because the defining feature is this pervasive disregard for others, it stands out as the hallmark trait.

The other options point to different conditions: an excessive need for admiration aligns with narcissistic personality disorder; extreme fear of social situations corresponds to social anxiety disorder; and recurrent panic attacks are associated with panic disorder. None of those center on ignoring the rights of others, which is why they’re not the hallmark of antisocial personality disorder.