Volu m e II - Purdue University Calumet

chapter is dedicated to this group in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. No lab or blood
tests can diagnose antisocial personality disorder. Also, most people with this disorder do not seek
treatment because they find nothing wrong with their behavior (American Psychiatric Association, 2000).
A mental health professional can make a diagnosis by comparing a person’s life history and character traits
with the symptoms of the disorder.
There are several symptoms of antisocial personality disorder, including failure to conform to
societal norms, arrogance, false charm, deceitfulness or manipulation, disregard for the rights and feelings
of others, avoidance of being pushed around, superficial rationalizations, acts of violence, and a lack of
empathy (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). In “The Most Dangerous Game,” General Zaroff
displays all of these symptoms in one form or another.
As an advocate of nonconformity, Zaroff lives in complete isolation (Connell, 1924). Some people
like to have their home set away from the road, but Zaroff takes this to the extreme. Societal norms do not
include building a mansion in the middle of the uncharted Caribbean. He does not conform because he has
no one to conform to. Furthermore, he rejects society by choosing to segregate himself.
The symptom of arrogance is obvious in Zaroff as well. He takes great pride in his abilities as a
hunter and sings his own praises continuously. While reminiscing about his achievements, Zaroff boasts
that jaguars “were no match at all for a hunter with his wits about him” (Connell, 1924, p. 483). He seems
bitterly upset at the lack of a challenge from any animal as he exclaims, “Hunting was beginning to bore
me!” (Connell, 1924, p. 483). The general likes to brag about himself. He views himself as above all other
hunters. There is a clear streak of arrogance within him.
Antisocial personality subjects also have a false charm about them. This implies that they produce
the appearance of a high-class citizen while their thoughts and actions depict otherwise. Zaroff throws
money around, has expensive taste, and gives off a sophisticated demeanor. While being welcomed,
Rainsford finds “the general a most thoughtful and affable host, a true cosmopolite” (Connell, 1924, p.
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