Personality disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by enduring patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experiences.
These patterns deviate from cultural expectations and lead to distress or impairment in various areas of life. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) identifies ten different personality disorders, each falling under one of three major categories. Let’s explore these categories and their associated disorders in detail.
Cluster A: Odd or Eccentric Behavior
Cluster A is characterized by odd or eccentric behavior. Individuals with these personality disorders often appear peculiar and may have difficulties with social interactions.
1. Paranoid Personality Disorder (PPD)
People with PPD have a pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others. They tend to interpret the actions of others as malevolent and are always on guard for potential threats.
This constant suspicion often strains their relationships and affects various aspects of their lives.
2. Schizoid Personality Disorder (SPD)
SPD is marked by a lack of interest in social interactions and a limited range of emotional expression. Individuals with SPD typically prefer solitary activities and often seem indifferent to praise or criticism from others.
3. Schizotypal Personality Disorder (STPD)
Individuals with STPD have peculiar thoughts, behaviors, and beliefs. They may experience paranoid thoughts, odd perceptual experiences, and have difficulty forming close relationships.
These characteristics often lead to a sense of social anxiety and discomfort in social situations.
Cluster B: Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic Behavior
Cluster B personality disorders are characterized by dramatic, emotional, or erratic behavior. People with these disorders often struggle with impulse control and have difficulty maintaining stable relationships.
4. Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)
ASPD is characterized by a disregard for the rights and feelings of others. People with ASPD often engage in dishonest or manipulative behavior, violate social norms, and show a lack of remorse for their actions.
They may have a history of legal trouble and difficulty maintaining relationships.
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5. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
BPD is characterized by unstable emotions and relationships, intense fears of abandonment, and impulsive behavior. Individuals with BPD often struggle with self-image and may engage in self-harming behaviors or have recurrent suicidal ideation.
6. Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD)
People with HPD have a constant need for attention and validation. They often display dramatic and exaggerated behaviors in order to gain the attention of others. However, their relationships may tend to be shallow and unstable.
7. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
People with NPD have an exaggerated sense of self-importance and a constant need for admiration. They often have a lack of empathy for others and have difficulty accepting criticism or feedback.
They may exploit others for personal gain and have a sense of entitlement.
Cluster C: Anxious or Fearful Behavior
Cluster C personality disorders are characterized by anxious or fearful behavior. Individuals with these disorders often experience pervasive feelings of fear and worry.
8. Avoidant Personality Disorder (AvPD)
AvPD is characterized by a pervasive and excessive fear of social rejection and criticism. Individuals with AvPD often avoid social interactions and situations that may cause embarrassment or humiliation.
They may have low self-esteem and struggle with forming close relationships.
9. Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD)
People with DPD exhibit excessive dependence on others and have difficulty making decisions for themselves.
They often rely heavily on others for emotional and physical needs and may tolerate mistreatment or abuse in order to maintain those relationships.
10. Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
OCPD is characterized by a preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control. People with OCPD often have rigid thinking patterns and may struggle with delegating tasks or relinquishing control.
They may experience high levels of anxiety when things do not go according to their plans.
