What do antisocial mean Meaning and Definition

What do antisocial mean

What do antisocial mean

Pronunciation

/ˈdʒərbərə/

Part of Speech

Phrase

Definition

A phrase used to describe the definition or interpretation of the term ‘antisocial’, which refers to behavior that is contrary to the norms of society. Antisocial behavior can include violence, aggression, or other forms of behavior that are detrimental to others or to society as a whole.

Examples

  • Can you explain what the term ‘antisocial’ means?
  • The psychologist studied the effects of antisocial behavior on children’s development.

Synonyms

  • Anti-social
  • Unsocial
  • Unfriendly

Antonyms

  • Prosocial
  • Social
  • Communal

Additional Information

The term ‘antisocial’ has been used in psychology and sociology to describe behavior that is detrimental to others or to society. It is often used to describe individuals who engage in aggressive or violent behavior, or who fail to exhibit empathy or concern for the well-being of others. However, the term can also be used more broadly to describe behavior that is simply unconventional or nonconformist.

Antisocial behavior can have serious consequences, both for the individual who exhibits it and for the broader community. For example, studies have shown that children who engage in antisocial behavior are more likely to experience difficulties in school and in their personal relationships, and may also be more likely to engage in delinquent behavior as they get older.

On the other hand, some research has also suggested that certain forms of antisocial behavior, such as nonconformity or dissent, can be beneficial in certain contexts. For example, some researchers have argued that nonconformity can be an important driver of creativity and innovation, and can also help to bring about social change.

Etymology

The term ‘antisocial’ has its roots in the word ‘social’, which comes from the Latin ‘socialis’, meaning ‘of or pertaining to society’ or ‘sociable’. The prefix ‘anti-‘ means ‘against’ or ‘opposite’, and is used to indicate opposition or resistance to something.

Usage Notes

The term ‘antisocial’ is often used in a pejorative sense, to describe behavior that is considered to be unacceptable or undesirable. However, it can also be used in a more neutral sense, to describe behavior that is simply unconventional or nonconformist.

Cultural References

The term ‘antisocial’ has been used in a variety of cultural contexts, including in psychology, sociology, and literature. For example, the psychologist Erich Fromm wrote extensively on the topic of antisocial behavior and its effects on society.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • ‘Antisocial behavior’
  • ‘Unsocial hour’
  • ‘Anti-social media’

Related Words or Phrases

  • Anti-social
  • Unsocial
  • Unfriendly
  • Prosocial
  • Social
  • Communal

Collocations

  • ‘Antisocial behavior’
  • ‘Antisocial personality disorder’
  • ‘Antisocial tendencies’

Frequency of Use

The term ‘antisocial’ is used relatively frequently in both spoken and written language, particularly in the context of psychology and sociology.

Common Misspellings

  • ‘Antisocial’
  • ‘Unsocial’
  • ‘Antisociality’

Related Words