UNDERSTANDING MISCONCEPTIONS, CHALLENGES ON MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT OF ANTISOCIAL PERSONALITY DISORDER AMONG STUDENT NURSES IN NAUTH

Abstract

This study assessed the knowledge, misconceptions, and attitudes toward the management and treatment of ASPD among student nurses at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH). A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to 67 student nurses. Findings revealed that respondents demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge of ASPD, with a majority recognizing that the disorder involves disregard for others (71.7%) and is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors (64.2%). However, gaps existed in detailed clinical knowledge, particularly regarding symptoms and diagnosis. Misconceptions were prevalent, as many respondents believed that ASPD is synonymous with psychopathy (59.7%) and that individuals with the disorder lack all forms of emotion (56.7%). The study highlights the need for Improved psychiatric education, targeted training, and enhanced clinical exposure to address misconceptions and strengthen the competence of student nurses. It also emphasizes the importance of reducing stigma and providing adequate institutional support to improve the management of ASPD in clinical settings.