Personality disorders (PDs) are long-lasting mental disorders that affect an individual's personality, thoughts, and behaviors. These disorders may cause an individual to act out of what is socially acceptable and expected, and negatively affect the individual's way of living or functioning, as well as the people around them.
According to the DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), there are ten types of personality disorders grouped into three clusters (Clusters A, B, and C). Cluster A is known as the "odd/eccentric" cluster, where an individual affected with these PDs may portray unusual behaviors that cause social challenges. Cluster B is known as the "dramatic/erratic" cluster, where impulsivity and exaggerated emotions/behaviors are present in an individual affected by these PDs. These disorders could interfere with relationships. Cluster C, or the "anxious/fearful" cluster, cause an individual to feel strong paranoia or anxiety about certain things which could also interfere with relationships.
Here are the ten personality disorders:
Cluster A:
Paranoid PD - An individual with paranoid PD experiences delusions or paranoia. They feel that people may be out to get them, and that people are deceiving and harmful. Due to this, many individuals may have an issue with mistrust and doubting others.
Schizoid PD - A person with schizoid PD is closed off from society and does not wish to bring themselves into relationships or social interactions. They have trouble expressing their emotions and regard compliments or criticism with impartiality and detachment.
Schizotypal PD - People with schizotypal PD usually have strange beliefs and thoughts, are eccentric, and are socially anxious. They do not feel comfortable in close relationships.
Cluster B:
Antisocial PD - This disorder is characterized by impulsivity and lack of remorse, empathy, or regard for others, or even the safety of the individual themselves. Many people with antisocial PD may commit crimes or become aggressive, and they often tell lies or use manipulation to get what they want. People with this disorder may be known as "psychopaths" or "sociopaths," however psychopathy or sociopathy are not real medical diagnoses.
Narcissistic PD - People with narcissistic PD are usually characterized as having an inflated sense of self and grandiosity. They lack empathy and crave admiration and praise from other people.
Histrionic PD - People with histrionic PD often crave attention from others by acting dramatically or having dramatic outbursts. Their emotions may veer wildly and quickly.
Borderline PD - A person with borderline PD has a strong fear of abandonment. Because of this, they often have unstable relationships with others. This disorder is also characterized by major mood swings and anger, impulsivity, and lack of self-confidence or fragile ego. Researchers have found that depression and suicide rates are high in people with BPD.
Cluster C:
Avoidant PD - People with avoidant PD usually are extremely shy and may withdraw from social interactions because of this. They often feel as if they aren't good enough and are extremely sensitive towards any criticism.
Dependent PD - This PD is characterized by having a fear of decision-making or independence. Usually, a person with dependent PD requires the advice of others in order to make decisions and care for themselves. They need constant reassurance from other people, or they will feel helpless if they are left alone.
Obsessive-Compulsive PD - This PD is characterized by an extreme need to be neat and controlled. A person with OCPD may be preoccupied with schedules and over-work themselves, which can lead to them pushing away others and hurting relationships as well as their own time for leisure. OCPD should not be confused with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). People with OCD have intrusive thoughts where they need to do certain repeated behaviors/actions in order to relieve their anxiety from these thoughts. Their behaviors can fluctuate. OCPD is more related to extreme perfectionism. Their behaviors are more persistent.
Are there any treatments for personality disorders?
Research has suggested that two forms of therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, may be the most effective when it comes to treating personality disorders, however it does depend on the PD.
In dialectical behavior therapy, therapists may use mindfulness tactics in order to help people with their emotional problems or struggles. However, in cognitive behavioral therapy, therapists may help regulate or change negative thoughts or beliefs rather than emotions.
In reality, personality disorders are extremely difficult to treat, but recognizing a personality disorder and seeking out treatment could help tremendously. PDs can be misunderstood, and there is still ongoing research of many of these disorders.
Sources:
Comments