Chapter 20 - Personality disorders

Abstract

Personality disorders are regular patterns of perceptions, reactions, and relations to others causing extreme distress or impaired functions. All personality disorders evolve from genetic and environmental factors. Paranoid personality disorder involves unrealistic distrust and suspicion of others. Schizoid personality disorder features detachment from social relationships and a general disinterest in them. Schizotypal personality disorder involves extreme discomfort with close relationships and a reduced ability to maintain them. Antisocial personality disorder features disregard for others and their rights and may involve stealing, harassment, or property destruction. The individual has no understanding or caring about others' needs. Borderline personality disorder involves hypersensitivity and instability in interpersonal relationships, with poor self-image, mood fluctuations, and impulsivity. Most “stalkers” have this disorder. Histrionic personality disorder is signified by extreme attention seeking and emotionality, plus being highly over-dramatic and flirtatious. Narcissistic personality disorder involves grandiosity, lack of empathy, and a need for adulation, with beliefs of being special, superior, or unique. Avoidant personality disorder has features of avoiding situations that could involve criticism, rejection, or humiliation. Dependent personality disorder is signified by an excessive need to be taken care of by other people. Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder involves a preoccupation with inflexible control and perfectionism.