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Paranoid Personality Disorder (PPD) is characterized by paranoia, a relentless mistrust and suspicion of others without adequate reason to be suspicious.
PPD is common in people who have close relatives with schizophrenia and delusional disorder,with research showing that the condition may run in the family. It is also believed that environmental factors such as early childhood experiences, including physical or emotional trauma can be a cause of this disorder.

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Believes others are exploiting or deceiving them.

Doubts the commitment, loyalty, or trustworthiness of others

Having difficulty admitting being at fault.

Showing coldness or a lack of emotion

Withdrawing from social contact with others

Exhibiting a short temper and overreacting to minor or perceived slights

Cannot see their role in problems or conflicts and believe they are always right

Reads hidden meanings in innocent remarks or casual looks of others

Unforgiving and hold grudges

Hypersensitive and take criticism poorly

Increased alertness

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This disorder often begins in early adulthood, however other factors may predict PPD symptoms in early adolescence such as:

Emotional neglect

Physical neglect

Supervisory neglect or

Extreme or unfounded parental rage

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Environmental factors are a significant risk factor for developing paranoid personality disorder. People who experience chaos, abuse or trauma in families with emotionally distant communication styles are at particular risk of developing this personality style.

There has also been an established link between PPD and genetics, as PPD is more common in people who have close relatives with disorders such as schizophrenia.

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With ongoing treatment and appropriate support, individuals with Paranoid personality disorder can manage symptoms and function more effectively in daily life. This can be achieved through treatment plans such as psychotherapy.

This can help an individual establish positive coping mechanisms by building empathy, trust, communication, self-esteem, and social relationships.

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https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/paranoid-personality-disorder/#:~:text=Aside%20from%20genetics%2C%20environmental%20factors,of%20developing%20this%20personality%20style.

This resource outlines symptoms and signs in depth as well as the causes of this Cluster A personality disorder. Such as environmental factors such as childhood abuse which has been significantly linked to the prevalence of Paranoid Personality Disorder.

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The Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab

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Paranoid personality disorder is the fourth most common personality disorder in the United States. Having paranoid personality traits elevates the risk of developing substance use disorders and significantly impacts people's ability to trust others, including family members and friends who might be trying to provide support. People with paranoid personality disorder are more likely to struggle to develop a stable social network.

While people with paranoid personality disorder might be opposed to treatment, they can benefit from targeted interventions that challenge their cognitive distortions and help them establish more trust with professionals and peers.

What Is Paranoid Personality Disorder?

Paranoid personality disorder is one of the three Cluster A personality disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Schizoid, schizotypal and paranoid personality disorder have been called the "eccentric" personality disorders and share features in common with psychotic disorder schizophrenia.

Personality disorders differ from other psychiatric disorders in many ways. People who have paranoid personality traits are less likely to view them as symptoms and more likely to perceive them as part of their identity or personality.

While other mental health conditions can develop in later years, childhood influences frequently drive personality disorders, which arise by late adolescence or early adulthood and persist over time. They reflect behaviors that were adaptive in childhood but become maladaptive in adulthood.

Symptoms of Paranoid Personality Disorder

Most paranoid personality disorder symptoms reflect a mistrust in the world and other people.

Paranoid personality disorder is primarily driven by thinking patterns. People with the disorder believe others intend to harm or take advantage of them. Typical behaviors of paranoid personality disorder can range in severity and include:

Being tense

Having difficulty admitting being at fault or wrong

Showing coldness or a lack of emotion

Withdrawing almost entirely from social contact with others

Engaging in excessive tracking, recording or "policing" behavior

Exhibiting a short temper and overreacting to minor or perceived slights

Confronting people in person or over the phone with accusations of betrayal

Signs of Personality Disorder

The signs of paranoid personality disorder are often more apparent to outside observers than to people who have the disorder. People with paranoid personality disorder usually perceive paranoid personality traits as part of who they are.

People who express suspicion of others aren't always paranoid, and paranoid personality disorder can only be accurately diagnosed by identifying symptoms that persist for an extended amount of time, which rules out legitimate causes of mistrust.

For example, people who have been stalked might exhibit paranoia for good reason, though they are likely to heal over time and trust others again. People with paranoid personality disorder tend to maintain the same degree of paranoia over time and for a wide range of relationships even if they have not experienced any recent harm or manipulation.

Paranoid personality disorder examples include a wide range of behavior. One person with the disorder might isolate himself in his house and peer through the blinds at every passerby. Another person might map out an elaborate conspiracy theory using newspaper clippings pasted to their wall.

However, many people quietly suffer from symptoms of the disorder and only signal their paranoia to others with subtle signs like clipped speech or furtive glances. Some sense that others won't believe them and work diligently to keep their suspicions hidden.

Causes of Paranoid Personality Disorder

As with other personality disorders, paranoid personality disorder causes typically fall within one of three categories: genetic, biological or environmental. Paranoid personality disorder is closely linked to a family history of Cluster A personality disorders, schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders.

There is also a strong connection between paranoid personality disorder and childhood abuse. People with the disorder often have histories of childhood trauma combined with family dynamics that were emotionally distant. People with the disorder typically experienced little to no affection growing up and were directly abused or exposed to frequent episodes of violence between their parents.

How Is Paranoid Personality Disorder Diagnosed?

The paranoid personality disorder definition from the DSM characterizes the disorder as "a pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others such that their motives are interpreted as malevolent." To be diagnosed with paranoid personality disorder, a person must exhibit four of the following seven symptoms or traits:

Being reluctant to confide in others due to fear of betrayal

Fixating on doubts about others' loyalty or trustworthiness

Repeatedly accusing a partner of sexual or romantic infidelity

Holding on to grudges and refusing to forgive even minor insults or slights

Perceiving demeaning or threatening meanings in neutral statements or events

Suspecting, without evidence, that others are exploiting, harming or deceiving them

Inaccurately perceiving hostility in others and making quick, aggressive counterreactions

These traits cannot be better explained by or occur during a psychotic, mood or other psychiatric disorder. While schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders are usually more acutely disturbing or disrupting to the people who have them, they are also easier to recognize and treat. People with paranoid personality disorder are affected on a more pervasive level that makes identifying the condition more difficult.

For this reason, people rarely come into treatment to address paranoid personality disorder symptoms. They may receive a paranoid personality disorder diagnosis after a long period of observation by a clinician who has been treating them for related medical or mental health concerns. One way that professionals can make a paranoid personality disorder diagnosis is completing a patient history and determining when a person started thinking and acting in ways characteristic of the disorder. For paranoid personality disorder, the age of onset is typically in late teen or early adult years.

For people who wonder whether they have or someone they know has this mental illness, reading a paranoid personality disorder case study can be helpful. The story of 65-year-old "Mr. J" shows many ways that the disorder can affect a person's life, including causing them to avoid or withdraw from necessary medical care.

Who Is at Risk for Paranoid Personality Disorder?

The most significant risk factor for paranoid personality disorder is a family history of the disease or other related disorders. The genetic factors associated with psychotic and Cluster A personality disorders linked to differences in brain function. Brain activity associated with social interaction, emotional activation, learning and memory differs in people with these conditions.

Aside from genetics, environmental factors are the most significant risk factors for developing paranoid personality disorder. People who experience chaos, abuse or trauma in families with emotionally distant communication styles are at particular risk of developing this personality style. Having experiences of frequent victimization can reinforce a worldview that people in positions of authority can't be trusted.

Paranoid Personality Disorder Statistics

Facts about paranoid personality disorder include the following:

Estimates of how many people in the U.S. have paranoid personality disorder vary, but studies suggest about 4.5 percent of the population, or more than 14 million people, have paranoid personality disorder

The prevalence of paranoid personality disorder in people receiving outpatient mental health treatment is 2 to 10 percent

The rates of paranoid personality disorder among people in psychiatric inpatient units is 10 to 30 percent

A recent study shows that about 10 percent of people receiving treatment for an alcohol use disorder have a co-occurring paranoid personality disorder

Paranoid personality disorder can cause constant stress and drive people to limit their social support systems. This increases their risk of substance abuse and addiction. These comorbid disorders can seem daunting to treat, but there are many options available to help people recover from substance abuse. If you or someone you know is struggling with a co-occurring paranoid personality disorder and substance abuse, contact a representative from The Recovery Village to learn how to start living a healthier life.

Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.

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Paranoid Personality Disorder - The Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab

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Paranoid personality disorder is the fourth most common personality disorder in the United States. Having paranoid personality traits elevates the risk of developing substance use disorders and significantly impacts people's ability to trust others, including family members and friends who might be trying to provide support.

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https://www.merckmanuals.com/en-ca/professional/psychiatric-disorders/personality-disorders/paranoid-personality-disorder-ppd

This resource can be used for reference for CYC workers as it outlines the steps that are taken to make the diagnosis of PPD following clinical criteria DSM-5, as well as other differential diagnosis that share the same symptoms but not the same patterns and severity.
This resource also explains comorbidities that are common with a Paranoid personality disorder diagnosis such as thought disorders like schizophrenia or anxiety disorders such as social phobia and more.

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Patients with paranoid personality disorder suspect that others are planning to exploit, deceive, or harm them. They feel that they may be attacked at any time and without reason. Even though there is little or no evidence, they persist in maintaining their suspicions and thoughts.

Often, these patients think that others have greatly and irreversibly injured them. They are hypervigilant for potential insults, slights, threats, and disloyalty and look for hidden meanings in remarks and actions. They closely scrutinize others for evidence to support their suspicions. For example, they may misinterpret an offer of help as implication that they are unable to do the task on their own. If they think that they have been insulted or injured in any way, they do not forgive the person who injured them. They tend to counterattack or to become angry in response to these perceived injuries. Because they distrust others, they feel a need to be autonomous and in control.

These patients are hesitant to confide in or develop close relationships with others because they worry that the information may be used against them. They doubt the loyalty of friends and the faithfulness of their spouse or partner. They can be extremely jealous and may constantly question the activities and motives of their spouse or partner in an effort to justify their jealousy.

Thus, patients with paranoid personality disorder can be difficult to get along with. When others respond negatively to them, they take these responses as confirmation of their original suspicions.

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Paranoid Personality Disorder (PPD) - Psychiatric Disorders - Merck Manuals Professional Edition

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Patients with paranoid personality disorder suspect that others are planning to exploit, deceive, or harm them. They feel that they may be attacked at any time and without reason. Even though there is little or no evidence, they persist in maintaining their suspicions and thoughts.

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https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327003

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People with paranoid personality disorder have a deep and unwarranted mistrust of others, which tends to have a significant effect on their relationships with family, friends, and co-workers.

Paranoid personality disorder (PPD)is among the most common personality disorders. Experts believe that this disorder may affect up to 4.41% of the population.

People with PPD feel threatened by others, so they are usually reluctant to seek medical attention. As a result, many clinicians have little experience in diagnosing and treating the disorder. There are also no clinical studies or treatment guidelines available.

In this article, we outline the current understanding of PPD. We explore the causes and symptoms of the disorder, as well as the treatment options available.

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A person with PPD may experience sensitivity to criticism, emotional rigidity, and increased alertness.

In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association published the definition of PPD in the third Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III).

People with PPD have suspicious, unforgiving, and jealous personality traits. Some doctors also believe that people with PPD have traits of excessive self-importance and hostility.

PPD can occur as a standalone disorder. However, people with the following conditions may also show symptoms of PPD:

Experts know little else about PPD. One reason for this is that people with PPD tend to be reluctant to volunteer for clinical studies.

People with PPD are distrusting or suspicious of others. They tend to see other people as a threat and generally feel as though others will harm or deceive them. This disorder prevents people from confiding in others and having close, meaningful relationships.

Some additional signs and symptoms of PPD include :

increased alertness

sensitivity to criticism

aggressiveness

emotional rigidity

an excessive need to be or work alone

Substance misuse problems are also among people with PPD.

A doctor will assess a person to see whether they satisfy the criteria for PPD that the DSM-5 outlines.

The DSM-5 describes PPD as a deep distrust and suspicion of others. According to the DSM-5, people with such feelings will interpret others' motives as malicious and spiteful.

Healthcare professionals will only diagnose a person with PPD if they fulfill at least four of the following criteria:

1. Suspecting that others are exploiting, harming, or deceiving them.

2. Worrying about loyalty and whether they can trust their family, friends, or co-workers.

3. Avoiding confiding in others because of a fear that people will use any information against them.

4. Interpreting remarks or events as demeaning or threatening without justification.

5. Holding grudges.

6. Perceiving attacks on their character and reputation that are unapparent to others and acting aggressively in response.

7. Suspecting that a spouse or partner is unfaithful without justification.

Some of the diagnostic criteria overlap with those of other conditions, such as:

Due to this overlap, a healthcare professional will only diagnose PPD if the symptoms are not wholly attributable to one of the above conditions.

Most studies investigating the causes of different psychological disorders tend to group all of the personality disorders. For this reason, it is difficult to identify the causes of one particular personality disorder, such as PPD.

However, according to a 2017 review, studies have consistently shown childhood trauma to be a risk factor for PPD.

Researchers have also identified other factors that may predict PPD symptoms in adolescence and adulthood. These include:

emotional neglect

physical neglect

supervisory neglect

extreme or unfounded parental rage

Further research is necessary to explore the causes and risk factors of PPD.

Researchers have only recently begun to study PPD, so doctors know little about treating the condition.

No clinical trials are available for PPD because it is not currently a high priority for clinicians, and there is a lack of volunteer participants.

However, doctors may sometimes consider the following treatment options for people with PPD.

Medications

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have not yet approved any drug treatments for PPD.

Some people have suggested treating PPD with the same drugs that healthcare professionals use to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD). The premise for this is that the two conditions share similar diagnostic features, such as hostility and aggression toward others.

Although the FDA have not approved any drugs for BPD either, healthcare professionals may prescribe the following medications to reduce aggression:

However, a 2017 review noted that the effects of these drugs were too small to benefit the recipient significantly.

Psychotherapy

Similar to drug therapy, doctors do not know much about the effectiveness of psychotherapy for PPD.

However, many psychiatrists believe that cognitive behavioral therapy may help alleviate PPD symptoms, and some case studies support its use.

The overall aim of therapy is to:

encourage the person to become more trusting of others

stop the person from questioning the loyalty of family and close friends

prevent the person from perceiving benign comments as threats

stop the person from reacting to perceived insults with anger and hostility

encourage the person to become more forgiving of others

PPD is a significant cause of disability in the United States. It can lower a person's quality of life and may also affect the lives of their family, friends, and co-workers.

PPD can manifest in aggression and violence toward others. As a result, people with PPD may find themselves socially isolated and depressed.

It is unclear whether suicides rates are higher among people with PPD. However, PPD often occurs alongside other disorders that have an association with an increased risk of suicide.

The DSM has included paranoid personality disorder since 1980. Nonetheless, many doctors are still unfamiliar with this condition.

People with paranoid personality disorder are reluctant to participate in clinical studies. Many also resist consulting doctors and receiving treatment.

Currently, there is a lack of effective treatments for paranoid personality disorder. Some case studies suggest that psychotherapy may help alleviate some of the symptoms of the disorder. However, further research is necessary to establish appropriate treatment guidelines.

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Paranoid personality disorder: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

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People with paranoid personality disorder have a deep and unwarranted mistrust of others, which tends to have a significant effect on their relationships with family, friends, and co-workers. Paranoid personality disorder (PPD)is among the most common personality disorders. Experts believe that this disorder may affect up to 4.41% of the population.

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Schizotypal personality disorder (STPD) is a mental and behavioural disorder.
Individuals who have schizotypal personality disorder often seem odd or peculiar to others. They may also show unusual thinking and speech patterns, odd behaviours, thoughts and perceptions.

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Lack of close friends outside of  immediate family

Eccentric or unusual beliefs or mannerisms

Belief in superpowers (i.e. telepathy) or superstitions

Excessive social anxiety associated with paranoid fears

Paranoid thoughts or doubts about others’ loyalty

Interpreting harmless events as having a personal meaning

Dressing in an unkempt or odd manner

Strange or rambling speech patterns

Flat or limited emotional responses

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According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, symptoms of Schizotypal personality disorder must begin by early adulthood in order to meet the criteria for diagnosis.

Therefore during childhood or adolescence, individuals might experience symptoms such as:

Poor peer relationships

Social anxiety, isolation

Underachievement in school

Hypersensitivity

Peculiar thoughts and language

Bizarre fantasies

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Schizotypal personality disorder is not caused by any one specific factor. There are a number of risk factors that may make you more inclined to develop this disorder, including:

A family history of schizophrenia disorders or other mental health conditions

Brain malfunction, including brain trauma

Childhood experiences including abuse or neglect

Having a parental figure who is cold or detached from you

Injury or illness before or during birth

A history of psychotic breaks or periods of delusion

Abnormalities in your brain structure or chemistry

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Positive life experiences can be key to coping with schizotypal personality disorder. This can be done through forming relationships which can help reduce distress and anxiety.

Despite the fact that this is hard to do making small steps and implementing strategies can bring about a sense of achievement that can help reduce symptoms. This can also be done by taking up hobbies and engaging in diverse activities. As well as sticking to health habits such as keeping a schedule, having a good sleep routine, exercise and consistency with taking prescribed medications.

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https://www.verywellmind.com/schizotypal-personality-disorder-4689994

This resource outlines signs and symptoms of Schizotypal personality disorder including clear examples of how these symptoms might manifest themselves in real life. This resource could also be helpful for CYC workers as it details the diagnostic criteria of the condition, including how to rule out other disorders that might share some of the same symptoms.
This resource might also be used for reference for CYC workers as it points out childhood symptoms that are evident in children or teenagers with this condition.

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This Is What It Really Means to Have Schizotypal Personality Disorder

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Schizotypal personality disorder isn’t the same thing as schizophrenia. Here are the symptoms and how it’s best treated.

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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/schizotypal-personality-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20353919

This resource outlines symptoms of Schizotypal personality disorder as well as coping and support suggestions that individuals can follow such as practising consistent habits, building relationships and setting achievements goals in school, or work or leisure activities.
This resource also shares treatment options such as family therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy.

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Overview

People with schizotypal personality disorder are often described as odd or eccentric, and they usually have few, if any, close relationships. They generally don't know how relationships form or how their behavior affects others. They also tend to misinterpret others' motivations and behaviors and greatly distrust others.

These problems may lead to severe anxiety and a tendency to stay away from social situations. That's because people with schizotypal personality disorder tend to hold odd beliefs and may find it hard to respond correctly to social cues.

Schizotypal personality disorder usually is diagnosed in early adulthood, although some features of this condition may show up during childhood and the teen years. It's likely to be a lifelong condition. Treatments, such as medicines and therapy, can make symptoms better.

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Symptoms

Schizotypal personality disorder usually includes five or more of these symptoms. The person may:

Be a loner and lack close friends and other relationships outside of the immediate family.

Have flat emotions or have emotional responses that are limited or not proper socially.

Have too much social anxiety, which is ongoing.

Incorrectly interpret events, such as feeling that something harmless or not offensive has a direct personal meaning.

Have strange or unusual thinking, beliefs or mannerisms.

Have suspicious or paranoid thoughts and constant doubts about the loyalty of others.

Believe in special powers, such as mental telepathy or superstitions.

Have unusual thoughts, such as sensing an absent person's presence, or having illusions.

Dress in odd ways, such as appearing messy or wearing oddly matched clothes.

Speak in an odd way, such as vague or unusual patterns of speaking, or ramble oddly while speaking.

Symptoms of schizotypal personality disorder, such as more interest in activities done alone or a high level of social anxiety, may be seen in the teen years. The child may not do well in school or appear socially out of step with peers. This may lead to teasing or bullying.

Schizotypal personality disorder vs. schizophrenia

It's easy to confuse schizotypal personality disorder with schizophrenia, which is a severe mental health condition where people struggle with interpreting and managing reality. This is known as psychosis. People with schizotypal personality disorder may have brief psychotic bouts with delusions or hallucinations. But the bouts aren't as often, as long or as intense as with schizophrenia.

Another key difference is that people with schizotypal personality disorder usually can be made aware of how their distorted ideas differ from reality. Those with schizophrenia generally can't be swayed away from their delusions.

Despite the differences, people with schizotypal personality disorder can benefit from treatments like those used for schizophrenia. Sometimes schizotypal personality disorder is thought to be on a spectrum with schizophrenia, with schizotypal personality disorder viewed as less severe.

When to see a doctor

People with schizotypal personality disorder are likely to seek help only at the urging of friends or family members. Or people with schizotypal personality disorder may seek help for another problem such as depression, anxiety or substance misuse. If you think that a friend or family member may have the condition, consider gently suggesting that the person seek the help of a healthcare professional or mental health professional.

If you need immediate help

If you're concerned that you might harm yourself or someone else, go to an emergency department or call 911 in the U.S. or your local emergency number right away. Or contact a suicide hotline. In the U.S., call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat. Services are free and confidential. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. has a Spanish language phone line at 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free).

Causes

It's not known what causes schizotypal personality disorder. But it's likely that changes in the way the brain functions, genetics, environmental influences and learned behaviors play a role.

Risk factors

You may be more at risk of schizotypal personality disorder if a relative has schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder.

Complications

People with schizotypal personality disorder are more at risk of:

Depression.

Anxiety.

Other personality disorders.

Schizophrenia.

Temporary psychotic bouts, usually in response to stress.

Misuse of alcohol or drugs.

Suicide attempts.

Problems with work, school and other social relationships.

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Schizotypal personality disorder - Symptoms and causes

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This condition includes odd or eccentric thinking and behavior, few close relationships, and great distrust of others. Treatment can make symptoms better.

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https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/personality-disorders/schizotypal-personality-disorder

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People with schizotypal personality disorder do not have close friends or confidants, except for first-degree relatives. They are very uncomfortable relating to people. They interact with people if they have to but prefer not to because they feel like they are different and do not belong. However, they may say their lack of relationships makes them unhappy. They are very anxious in social situations, especially unfamiliar ones. Spending more time in a situation does not ease their anxiety.

People with this disorder may ignore ordinary social conventions (for example, not make eye contact), and because they do not understand usual social cues, they may interact with others inappropriately or stiffly.

People with schizotypal personality disorder have odd ways of thinking, perceiving, and communicating. The following are examples:

Ideas of reference: People with these ideas think that ordinary occurrences have special meaning just for them.

Magical thinking: People think that they have magical control over others. For example, they may think that they cause other people to do ordinary things (such as feed the dog) or that they can perform magical rituals to prevent harm (such as washing their hands 3 times to prevent illness).

Paranoia: People are suspicious and mistrustful and wrongfully think that other people are out to get them or intend to harm them.

Paranormal powers: People think they have paranormal powers, enabling them to sense events before they happen or to read other people's minds.

Speech may be odd. It may be excessively abstract or concrete or contain odd phrases or use phrases or words in odd ways. They often dress oddly or in an unkempt way (for example, wearing ill-fitting or dirty clothes) and have odd mannerisms.

In people with schizotypal disorder, perceptions (what they see, hear, or sense) may be distorted. For example, they may hear a voice whispering their name.

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Schizotypal Personality Disorder - Mental Health Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version

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People with schizotypal personality disorder do not have close friends or confidants, except for first-degree relatives. They are very uncomfortable relating to people. They interact with people if they have to but prefer not to because they feel like they are different and do not belong.

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Schizoid personality disorder (SPD) is characterized by social isolation and feelings of indifference toward other people. Those who live with this disorder are often described as distant or withdrawn and tend to avoid social situations that involve interaction with other people.

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Borderline Personality Disorder is an illness that is usually characterized by an ongoing pattern of varying moods, self-image, and behaviour. This can lead to impulsive decision making with intense episodes of anger, depression, and anxiety.

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Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a condition characterized by a lack of empathy and regard for other people. Individuals with antisocial personality disorder have a hard time distinguishing between right or wrong. Therefore they might lie, engage in aggressive or violent behaviour, and even participate in criminal activity.

Individuals with this disorder might also have a hard time sustaining relationships as they don't follow socially accepted rules and norms. They therefore might antagonize or often act insensitively and display a lack of respect for others.

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Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) is a condition that causes hyper-emotional responses and instances of attention-seeking behaviour. HPD can cause significant life disruptions and unhappiness if left untreated, but with intensive therapy and a deep commitment to personal growth, individuals can lead healthy and productive lives.

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Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by a need for admiration and a grandiose sense of self. These individuals may often be described as manipulative, arrogant and self centred.

Much like other personality disorders, this condition can negatively impacts someone's life in various areas, including social, family, and work relationships and might also bring about other pathological personality traits. However with treatment such as therapy can support people with this condition develop a healthier sense of self and others.

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" Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is characterized by a pervasive preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control (with no room for flexibility) that ultimately slows or interferes with completing a task."
Diagnosis for OCPD is done through clinical criteria of the DSM-5, and patients must posses a persistent pattern of fixation with order, perfectionism and control of self, others and situations.

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" People with avoidant personality disorder avoid social situations due to fear of rejection and being judged by others. "
Avoidant personality disorder is grouped with other personality disorders and is marked by feelings of nervousness and fear.
Though individuals with Avoidant personality disorder might like to interact with others, they tend to avoid social interaction due to chronic feelings of inadequacy and the intense fear of being rejected by others.

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Dependent Personality Disorder is the fear of “going it alone,” always second-guessing yourself, and depending on reassurance.
The disorder is defined as a very intense and overwhelming need to be cared for often accompanied by fears of being alone, abandoned, or disappointing others.

Individuals might have a difficult time making everyday decisions without advice and reassurance from people who are important to them.These individuals might also feel so incapable of functioning alone that they will agree to situations and experiences that make them uncomfortable, rather than risk losing the person they are dependent on for guidance.

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In order to diagnose this condition, certain symptoms must be observed to meet the criteria such as:

Personality traits that don’t adjust to the social norm and make it difficult to adapt and change

Distressing behaviour and emotions not influenced by age, culture, illness, or substance use

A preoccupation with introspection and fantasy

A sense of indifference to praise and affirmation, as well as to criticism or rejection

Detachment from other people

Little or no desire to form close relationships with others

Indifference to social norms and expectations

Infrequent participation in activities for fun or pleasure

Not enjoying social or family relationships

Often described as cold, uninterested, withdrawn, and aloof

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Chronic feelings of emptiness

Emotional instability including intense episodic sadness, irritability, or anxiety.

Identity disturbance with persistently unstable self-image or sense of self

Impulsive behaviour in at least two areas that are potentially self-damaging (e.g., spending, sex, substance abuse, reckless driving, binge eating)

Inappropriate, intense anger or difficulty controlling anger

Extreme pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships between idealization and devaluation (also known as "splitting")

Recurrent suicidal behaviour, gestures, threats, or self-harming

Stress-related paranoid ideation or severe dissociative symptoms.

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Individuals with antisocial personality disorder may begin displaying symptoms during childhood; such behaviours may include fire setting, cruelty to animals, and difficulty with authority

Often act out impulsively and fail to consider the consequences of their actions

Display aggressiveness and irritability that often lead to physical assaults

Have difficulty feeling empathy for others

Display a lack of remorse for damaging behaviour

Frequently lie and deceive others for personal gain

Refuse to take responsibility for their actions.

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Symptoms of Histrionic personality disorder might include:

Rapid shifts in mood, often triggered by seemingly benign events

Self centred, in conversation and behaviour

Exaggerated gestures or words designed to draw attention

A lack of patience, often accompanied by childish reactions

Constant approval-seeking behaviour

Flirtatious or sexually suggestive behaviour that may violate interpersonal boundaries

Obsessive concern with physical appearance

Lack of empathy, no capacity to read the emotions of others or correctly interpret their words and actions

Inability to maintain satisfying relationships due to self-centred tendencies and emotional outbursts

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Symptoms of Narcissist personality disorder might include:

Belief that one is unique or special and should only associate with other people of the same status

Constant need for attention, affirmation, and praise

Envy of others or the belief that one is the object of envy

Exaggerated sense of one's own abilities and achievements

Exploiting other people for personal gain

Lack of empathy for others

Persistent fantasies about attaining success and power

Preoccupation with power or success

Sense of entitlement and expectation of special treatment

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It is important to differentiate between OCD and OCPD. [The video above is great tool for this]

People with OCPD do not necessarily recognize that they have an issue. That is because in contrast to OCD, OCPD does not bring about obsessions and compulsions but rather is characterized by individuals engaging in rigid behaviours in their lives. Symptoms can include:

Expression of affection tightly controlled.

Perfectionism to the point that it impairs the ability to finish tasks

Stiff, formal, or rigid mannerisms

An overwhelming need to be punctual

Extreme attention to detail

Excessive devotion to work at the expense of family or social relationships

An overwhelming need for order

A sense of righteousness about the way things should be done

Excessive fixation with lists, rules and minor details

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Avoiding work, social, or school activities for fear of criticism or rejection.

May feel as if they are frequently unwelcome in social situations, even when that is not the case.

Assumes people will be critical of them.

Long for social interaction but fear placing their well-being in the hands of others.

Sensitive to anything slightly critical, disapproving, or mocking

Low self-esteem

Self-isolation

May be afraid to speak up for fear of saying the wrong thing.

Unusually reluctant to take personal risks or to engage in any new activities.

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Difficulty making everyday decisions without outside advice

Needing others to take charge of major areas of your life

Instinctively agreeing with others

Lacking confidence to start things on your own

Need for continual reassurance and support from others

Feeling uncomfortable, anxious, bored, or helpless when alone

Urgent need to find someone new when a relationship ends

separation anxiety

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Much like other personality disorders it can be hard to diagnose prior to the age of 18, with the exception of borderline personality disorder and even in those cases it can often be difficult. That is because personalities change and evolve throughout childhood and usually do not fully develop until the age of 18.

Despite the prevalence of a concrete diagnosis there has been some limited research and findings on children with Schizoid personality disorder characterized by solitariness, unusual fantasies, special interests, and specific developmental delays, especially of language-related skills.

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Borderline personality disorder usually peeks during the early twenties and leads to feelings of extreme emotions which can significantly impact self image and can make it hard sustain relationships. Therefore in adolescence, patients with BPDare often angry, impulsive, and quick to believe that other people have wronged them.

Young people with BPD can also often harm themselves and therefore have a high risk of suicide. Symptoms of BPD usually show up in the teenage years and early treatment and interventions can help people manage the disorder successfully.

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Signs of Antisocial personality behaviour in children can include:

Lying and stealing

Rebellion and violating rules

Vandalism and other property destruction

Chronic delinquency

Lack of conscience and empathy

Disregard and abuse of authority and people’s rights
aggression and violent tendencies

Using charm to manipulate

Adolescents with antisocial personality disorder might have trouble keeping up with responsibilities such as school or maintaining a job.

Risk factors for antisocial behaviour specific in young children can be based on genetics. As well as school environment, poor and negative parenting practices, or a
violent, unstable, or tumultuous home life.

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Children under the age of 18 do not usually get a diagnosis of Narcissistic personality disorder. However those that are diagnosed are those who might also already have symptoms of borderline personality disorder.
This is because traits of narcissism can be considered a normal part of child development, and when they are very young this can be effectively addressed early enough through parenting and environmental influences.

However there are signs of NPD that are unique to children as compared to adults, such as:

Excessive social media posting, especially images of self

Expectation of special treatment from parents or other caregivers

Frequently checking mirrors

Inability to maintain eye contact

Inflated ego

Learning difficulties unrelated to limited intelligence

Loss of interest in playing with toys

Lying as a form of justification, especially without remorse

Separation anxiety

Tantrums beyond what is considered normal

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Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder is not diagnosed until adulthood, as it is based on a pattern of behaviours that need to be observed.
Alongside personality traits that get in the way of a balanced life and getting things done efficiently, like perfectionism, extreme orderliness, overworking, overthinking things, and need to be in control.

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Frequently asked questions about Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and children and adolescents.

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Much like other personality disorders, Avoidant personality disorder symptoms may be noticed in childhood and often begins to affect the individual's life in adolescence or early adulthood.

Avoidant personality disorder is usually not diagnosed in people younger than 18 years old. This is because like many other personality disorders, there usually needs to be evidence of continued patterns of behaviour that are enduring, inflexible and that do not readily fade with time.

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This disorder usually appears in early adulthood and can be linked to separation anxiety in an individual’s childhood.
Additionally youth who have experienced a prolonged physical illness may be at higher risk of developing dependent personality disorder. Overprotective parenting styles can also contribute to the development of dependent personality traits in childhood and adolescence.

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Risk factors of developing schizoid personality disorder include genetics especially for individuals with a parent that has been diagnosed with schizotypal personality disorder, or schizophrenia.

However it is commonly believed that it may be a combination of genetics, environmental, cultural and social influences, early life experiences, and childhood relationships.

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Over time, it has been determined that BPD is predominantly caused by genetics.
However environmental factors such as child abuse can sometimes be a contributing factor as well as brain abnormalities brought on by brain chemicals responsible for mood regulation that don’t function properly can cause BPD.

With these chemicals being responsible for specific moods and feelings; brain abnormalities can be linked to aggression, difficulty regulating destructive urges, and depression.

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While there is no single cause of ASPD, there are a few factors that might increase someone's risk.

There are some biological factors as individuals with ASPD have been found to have unusual levels of serotonin; which is a chemical in the brain that regulates moods and feelings of happiness. Additionally someone's environment such as experiences of trauma and abuse during childhood can increase risk.

Furthermore genetics also do play a role which can predispose some individuals to develop ASPD. Other risk factors can also be as a result of lifestyle; as about half of people with ASPD also have problems with drug or alcohol abuse.

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There are no definitive causes of histrionic personality disorder but mental health professionals believe that both learned and inherited factors play a role in its development.

For example, there is a tendency for histrionic personality disorder to run in the family which suggests that the disorder might be inherited. However, there is differing viewpoints that suggest that a child of a parent with HPD might simply be repeating learned behaviour.

Environmental aspects that might be a factor include a lack of criticism or punishment as a child, positive reinforcement that is given only when a child completes certain approved behaviours. As well as unpredictable attention given to a child by parents, leading to confusion about what types of behaviour earn parental approval.

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The exact causes of Narcissistic personality disorder are unknown but there are a number of risk factors that may contribute to the condition such as environmental and biological. This can include:

Abuse or trauma

Lack of an authentically validating environment

Genetics are also thought to play a considerable role, although the exact causes are not specifically known and are likely complex and varied.

Death of a parent or caregiver

Divorce of parents

Excessive criticism

Extreme expectations from parents

Neglect from parents or caregivers

Overindulgence or pampering from parents or other caregivers

Overprotective parenting style

However it is important to recognize that positive parenting that reinforces affection in not the same as permissive parenting that might reinforce and even encourage a child's entitlement.

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Individuals with family members with traits of compulsivity, restricted range of emotion and perfectionism may exhibit symptoms of OCPD but that is not necessarily always the case.

There is however research that has suggested that individuals with OCPD may have had guardians that were overly punitive or overly controlling and protective.
The OCPD traits may have developed as a sort of coping mechanism to avoid punishment, in an effort to be “perfect” and obedient.
Additionally Cultural factors may also play a role, especially within " societies or religions that are very authoritarian and bound by strict rules that may impact early childhood development that affects personality expression."

Other risk factors include the fact that individuals with mood disorders such as persistent depressive disorder for example may be more susceptible to OCPD.

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Causes of Avoidant Personality Disorder can include genetic, environmental, social and psychological factors.
For example experience of emotional abuse, criticism, ridicule, or lack of affection from parents in childhood can lead to the development of this disorder.

Furthermore individuals with Avoidant personality disorder might also experience social phobia, or other depressive or anxiety disorder, which might heighten the severity of symptoms for some.

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Some risk factors that might contribute to the development of this disorder include:

History of neglect

An abusive upbringing

Being in a long-term, abusive relationship

Family history of anxiety disorders

Parenting styles

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With Schizoid personality disorder it is important to seek out support and gradually joining social settings such as work or hobby-related social groups. This could be beneficial as individuals with schizoid personality disorder struggle with emotional intimacy and therefore might find it easier to socialize with others in the context of an occupational or recreational pursuit. This can be a great way to develop social connections without overwhelming yourself.

Close connections with loved ones can also be helpful, therefore being patient and non judgemental with friends and family can be encouraging and lead to positive outcomes with seeking treatment. If you have a loved one with this condition, it can be helpful to avoid judgment and being patient which can encourage individuals to seek treatment.

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Avoiding stressful situations can be helpful and this can be done by being more conscious about the experiences you surround yourself with.

For example having a job with a more soothing environment might be beneficial, however it is also important to personalize strategies based on strengths and weakness as your disorder should not necessarily limit your life choices.

Additionally practising positive communication skills can help you take a step back from potential confrontations and help an individual see a situation more clearly.

Being proactive in addressing the condition such as taking medication and keeping appointments is also very important.

Finally relaxation exercises such as meditation and breath work can also be helpful and help maintain some stability if patients find themselves in stressful situations.

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According to the DSM-5, Antisocial Personality Disorder can result in incarceration, injury, or death due to harmful or criminal actions. As well as greatly impact an individual's ability to work and maintain relationships.

On the other hand research suggests that those who have the best outlook are those who have stronger social support and better spousal and family ties. Therefore it is important for loved ones to be proactive in the treatment of patients.

This can include family members seeking a mental health professional that might guide them to learn and put in place coping skills that can help all parties involved.

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Establishing healthy relationships is often a goal of treatment for personality disorders. Therefore people with HPD many need to learn new social skills, learn healthy ways to regulate their emotions, or improve their self-worth.

Additionally healthy lifestyle changes are encouraged in order to maintain positive momentum alongside treatment.This can include:

Establishing consistent and healthy eating and sleep schedules

Exercising on a regular basis

Maintaining a healthy weight

Avoiding drugs and alcohol

Seeking help from trusted friends and family to keep you on track

Since histrionic personality disorder is tied to a low self-esteem, practicing strategies that can help you build a healthy sense of self-worth may also help with this condition. This can include reminding yourself of your positive qualities, building positive relationships and spending less time with people who make you feel bad or taking on new challenges that boost confidence.

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With many people with NPD having trouble seeking treatment or recognizing their condition, it is important to encourage individuals with this condition to seek assistance.
Getting in touch with a health professional can help individuals change destructive thought and behaviour patterns. In order to effectively change distorted thoughts and create a more realistic self-image.

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There are numerous ways that loved ones can support someone with Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder. First and foremost is is important be knowledgeable about the condition.This can be an empowering process and can make the situation less daunting.

Managing stress: Keeping overall stress levels low could also be beneficial and having strategies in place can help individual's cope more effectively.

Support from loved ones that understand your condition can also be helpful especially if individual's are unsure about seeking help through behavioural therapy or other interventions.

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Putting in place coping strategies can be beneficial to individuals with Avoidant Personality Disorder. This can include involving close friends or family in the therapy process that might be able to objectively understand what you are going through.
As well as taking time for positive self care practices, in order to prevent taking up negative coping practices such as drug or alcohol use.

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In combination to a treatment plan such as medications, and therapy; individuals can implement practices in their own lives to effectively manage and cope.

This can include incorporating introspective activities such as meditation or journaling. As well as joining support groups and incrementally practicing autonomy in smaller tasks and responsibilities and moving up from there.

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https://www.mcleanhospital.org/video/learn-more-about-bpd-what-borderline-personality-disorder

This resource contains a video that outlines symptoms and the ways in which researchers are gaining better understanding of the disorder.
The resource also points out related disorders that people diagnosed with borderline personality disorder might experience such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD and more.This could be helpful for CYC workers in order to effectively give effective treatment by addressing related disorders.

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McLean Videos | Learn More About BPD: What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?

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Watch McLean videos and webinars on demand including Learn More About BPD: What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?

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https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9657-antisocial-personality-disorder

This resource outlines symptoms, and causes of Antisocial personality disorder. As well as the ways in which these types of personality disorder affect the way individuals think and behave.

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Overview

What is antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)?

Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a mental health condition. People with ASPD show a lack of respect toward others. They don't follow socially accepted norms or rules. People with ASPD may break the law or cause physical or emotional harm to the people around them. They may disregard consequences or refuse to take responsibility for their actions.

ASPD is one of many personality disorders. Personality disorders affect the way someone thinks or behaves.

How common is antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)?

Research suggests that ASPD affects about 1% to 4% of people in the U.S.

Is having antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) the same as being a sociopath?

Sometimes the terms "sociopath" or "sociopathy" get used to describe ASPD. Healthcare providers don't use these terms as clinical diagnoses. But traits of ASPD and sociopathy overlap, including a general lack of conscience.

Symptoms and Causes

What causes antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)?

There is no single cause of ASPD, but the following factors may increase a person's risk of developing the disorder:

Biology: People with ASPD may have unusual levels of serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that regulates our mood and feelings of happiness.

Environment: Trauma or abuse early in childhood increases the risk of developing ASPD later in life.

Genetics: There may be some genetics factors that can predispose some individuals to develop ASPD. However, there is no one genetic factor that is thought to be responsible for the condition.

Lifestyle: About half of people with ASPD also have problems with drug or alcohol abuse.

Sex: Men are more likely than women to develop ASPD.

At what age does antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) develop?

Traits of ASPD usually develop during late childhood or the early teen years. Before age 18, the condition gets diagnosed as conduct disorder. Children with conduct disorder may lie, steal, ignore rules or bully other children.

Sometimes parents or healthcare providers miss the signs of conduct disorder. The signs may overlap with other conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression or oppositional defiant disorder.

When children get diagnosed and treated early, the condition may not continue into adulthood. If the behavior does continue, the diagnosis becomes antisocial personality disorder at age 18.

What are the signs and symptoms of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)?

People with antisocial personality disorder may:

Be physically aggressive.

Behave recklessly.

Blame others for their problems.

Break the law.

Destroy property.

Manipulate or deceive others.

Show no remorse for hurtful actions.

Diagnosis and Tests

Is there a test for antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)?

There is no blood test or imaging exam that can diagnose ASPD. A healthcare provider will consider your health history, perform a physical exam and assess your symptoms.

You may see a healthcare provider who specializes in mental health disorders. A psychiatrist or psychologist evaluates your behavior. They look for patterns of:

Disregard for the rights of others.

Impulsive actions with no concern for consequences.

Irresponsible or reckless actions.

What is a differential diagnosis?

A differential diagnosis means distinguishing between several health conditions with similar symptoms. Certain disorders may mimic ASPD, so it's important for your healthcare provider to make the right diagnosis. These disorders include:

Management and Treatment

What is the treatment for antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)?

There is no set treatment for ASPD. Therapies such as medication or psychotherapy may help control specific behaviors, though. Studies suggest that symptoms of ASPD are worst around ages 24 to 44, then tend to improve after age 45.

Are there medications for antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)?

Medication generally only helps people with aggression, depression or erratic moods alongside ASPD. Your healthcare provider may recommend:

How can psychotherapy help antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)?

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of counseling that focuses on changing a person's thinking and behavior. Therapy for ASPD may help people think about how their behavior affects others. Someone with ASPD may benefit from individual therapy, group therapy or family therapy.

Prevention

Can antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) be prevented?

There isn't a way to prevent ASPD. But if conduct disorder gets caught early in childhood, therapy may prevent the development of ASPD in adulthood.

Outlook / Prognosis

Will antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) go away?

There is no cure for antisocial personality disorder. People generally manage the condition throughout their lives. But medication and therapy can help you cope with certain aspects of the disorder. The right treatment may help you adjust your behavior and reduce harm to those around you. Maintaining healthy relationships and a support system are key factors in managing ASPD long term.

Living With

When should I call my doctor about ASPD?

If you or someone you know has any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away:

You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800.273.8255. This hotline connects you to a network of local crisis centers that provide free and confidential emotional support. The centers support people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In an emergency, call 911.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
ASPD causes people to act without thinking how they're affecting others. Someone with ASPD may break rules or laws. They often show no remorse and take no responsibility. Psychotherapy and certain medications may help people with ASPD. With treatment, they may be able to control their thoughts and behavior. Healthcare providers, such as psychiatrists and psychologists, do thorough assessments to diagnose ASPD. They can recommend the right treatment plan.

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Antisocial Personality Disorder: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

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Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a mental health condition. People with ASPD show a lack of respect toward others. They don't follow socially accepted norms or rules. People with ASPD may break the law or cause physical or emotional harm to the people around them.

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https://www.bridgestorecovery.com/personality-disorders/histrionic-personality-disorder/

This resource outlines information on Histrionics personality disorder such as symptoms , statistics, as well as the different steps of diagnosis. This resource also explains other co-occurring disorders that individuals with HPD might exhibit such as anxiety disorders, depression, or substance use disorders.

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Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) is a condition that causes hyper-emotional responses and a range of attention-seeking behavior. HPD can cause significant life disruptions and unhappiness if left untreated, but with intensive therapy and a deep commitment to their personal evolution, men and women with histrionic personality disorder can go on to lead healthy and productive lives.

What Is Histrionic Personality Disorder?

Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) interferes with emotional stability. People with histrionic personality disorder are prone to emotional overreaction in a wide variety of situations, and from the viewpoint of others they may seem constantly on edge. When they do react, it is usually from a self-centered perspective, and the needs of others are seldom their priority.

In addition to their emotional sensitivity and reactivity, men and women with histrionic personality disorder have a strong need to be the center of attention and frequently exhibit a range of attention-seeking behavior. They also want instant satisfaction and are easily frustrated or overwhelmed by obstacles or criticism.

People with HPD usually have good communication skills and are often quite charismatic, projecting a "life of the party" or "larger than life" image. But beyond good initial first impressions they have a difficult time establishing and maintaining close and satisfying relationships.

Despite their self-absorption, people with HPD are subsumed by insecurity, which usually leaves them frustrated and miserable and seeking answers for their feelings of inadequacy.

Facts and Statistics

HPD is classified as a Cluster B personality disorder, along with borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder. People with Cluster B conditions are known to be highly emotional, erratic in their feelings and behavior, and self-centered in their approach to socializing and building relationships.

Nearly 15 percent of the American population meet the diagnostic criteria for one or more of 10 recognized personality disorders. Histrionic personality disorder is one of the least common of these disorders, affecting about 1.8 percent of the population, but that still represents about four million people.

Histrionic personality disorder is diagnosed more frequently among women, who comprise about two-thirds of the known cases. This may not reflect the true incidence of the disorder, but could relate to the willingness of women (or unwillingness of men) to seek assistance for the symptom of HPD when they manifest.

The seeds of histrionic personality disorder are likely sown in childhood, but its symptoms don't normally become apparent until late adolescence. The severity of the condition may then escalate during early adulthood and become a dominant factor from that point on.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Histrionic Personality Disorder

Personality disorders in general are marked by an obsessive concern for the self, rigid and uncompromising attitudes, and an inability or unwillingness to adapt to the needs and desires of others. They function as a cover for deep-seated self-esteem issues, representing a form of overcompensation for feelings of insecurity and inferiority.

HPD is prototypical of the personality disorder category in every way. An accurate histrionic definition focuses on the distinctive symptoms HPD produces, which include:

Strong and volatile emotions, both negative and positive

Rapid shifts in mood, often triggered by seemingly benign events

Self-centeredness, in conversation and behavior

Exaggerated gestures or words designed to draw attention

Expressions of sentiments toward others that seem shallow or insincere, as if meant to manipulate or create a certain impression

A lack of patience, often accompanied by childish reactions

Tendency to become flustered or frustrated when things go wrong

Extreme sensitivity to criticism or perceived rejection

Constant approval-seeking behavior

Flirtatious or sexually suggestive behavior that may violate interpersonal boundaries

Obsessive concern with physical appearance

A tendency to become bored or distracted, making it difficult to finish tasks or projects

Lack of empathy, no capacity to read the emotions of others or correctly interpret their words and actions

Inability to maintain satisfying relationships due to self-centered tendencies and emotional outbursts

Many of these symptoms are common to other personality disorders, which inevitably interfere with personal, social, and professional functioning.

Diagnosing Histrionic Personality Disorder

Under standards established by the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), histrionic personality disorder can be diagnosed if:

1. Feelings of discomfort are experienced if the person's need to be the center of attention is frustrated.

2. Inappropriate sexual innuendo or otherwise provocative behavior frequently causes interpersonal conflicts.

3. Rapid changes in emotion are experienced, although feelings often lack depth or texture.

4. Physical appearance is often carefully crafted to attract attention.

5. A person's conversation style is self-centered, impressionistic, and lacking in descriptive detail.

6. During interpersonal encounters, exaggerated expressions of emotion are the norm.

7. The person is highly suggestible and easily influenced by others.

8. The person has a habit of misinterpreting the feelings and intentions of others, believing their relationships to be more intimate than they actually are.

At least five of these eight signs of HPD must be detected before an official diagnosis can be made.

Causes and Risk Factors for Histrionic Personality Disorder

Mental health experts believe that personality disorders like HPD usually develop as a result of stress, anxiety, and trauma experienced during childhood. Young people who are subjected to neglect or abuse must rely on limited resources and life experiences to cope with haunting memories and the feelings of shame, inadequacy, or weakness that accompany them, and personality disorders may develop as a form of adaptation or compensation.

Overindulgent or inconsistent parenting can also lead to HPD later in life. This type of neglectful caregiving doesn't set boundaries and can therefore interfere with a child's healthy emotional and psychological development.

Having a family history of personality disorders, and other mental health conditions, is a risk factor for histrionic personality disorder. There are genetic factors involved that help explain the connection, but negative role modeling by parents with mental health issues can undoubtedly play a part in the development of HPD as well.

Co-Occurring Disorders

It is possible for a person to exhibit the symptoms of more than one personality disorder.

Among people diagnosed with HPD, borderline personality disorder, dependent personality disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder are also frequently diagnosed. Borderline personality disorder is the most commonly detected of these conditions, and some mental health professionals actually classify HPD as a borderline personality disorder subtype.

Some of the other mental and behavioral health disorders routinely diagnosed in people with histrionic personality disorder include:

Depression. HPD creates strong emotional responses, and when rejection or disappointment is experienced people with histrionic personalities can easily slip into clinical depression.

Anxiety disorders. In one study, between 35 and 52 percent of those with various anxiety disorders also met the diagnostic criteria for a personality disorder, usually of a type that affects emotion and stress responses (such as HPD).

Eating disorders. About one-third of eating disorder sufferers also have one or more co-occurring personality disorders, often including HPD.

Substance use disorders. While different studies have produced varying results, most research has shown as least some relationship between histrionic personality disorder and addiction. However, the association is not as strong as with several other types of personality disorder.

When an additional mental or behavioral health condition is diagnosed in people with HPD, treatment plans must be developed that focus equally on each disorder.

Histrionic Personality Disorder Treatment and Prognosis

If those who have them are truly determined to change their emotional and psychological reactions, personality disorders are amenable to treatment.

Inpatient or intensive outpatient treatment programs in mental health treatment facilities are ideal for people diagnosed with HPD, who require peace, quiet, and ample social and psychological support in the early stages of recovery.

Psychotherapy is the preferred method of intervention for histrionic personality disorder. Some of the therapies that have proven effective for this condition include:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Through CBT people with histrionic personalities can begin to think and act more calmly and with more deliberation and contemplation. CBT is also effective against depression and anxiety disorders, which can co-occur with HPD.

Psychodynamic therapy. The goal in psychodynamic therapy is to decrease emotional reactivity by identifying and demystifying the underlying reasons for the development of HPD.

Group therapy. By participating in group discussions and role-playing sessions with peers, men and women with HPD can work at improving their social behavior and interpersonal relationships.

Family and couples therapy. Family relationships of all types are affected by histrionic personality disorder, and all the issues that arise as a result of HPD can be addressed in a cooperative, solution-oriented environment during family or couples therapy.

Holistic mind-body practices. Mindfulness techniques acquired through meditation, yoga, Tai Chi, biofeedback, and other holistic therapies have much to offer people with HPD, who need to reprogram their minds to more effectively control their hair-trigger emotional reflexes.

With careful and compassionate intervention that extends from initial treatment through aftercare, people with histrionic personality disorder can learn to minimize the condition's influence on their lives. HPD cannot be cured, but over time its capacity to control emotional reactions can be reduced to a manageable level.
Our Treatment Program

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Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) is a condition that causes hyper-emotional responses and a range of attention-seeking behavior. HPD can cause significant life disruptions and unhappiness if left untreated, but with intensive therapy and a deep commitment to their personal evolution, men and women with histrionic personality disorder can go on to lead healthy and productive lives.

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https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/conditions/narcissistic-personality-disorder

This resource outlines general information on Narcissistic personality disorder including symptoms and biological and environmental causes of the condition.

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The hallmarks of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) are grandiosity, a lack of empathy for other people, and a need for admiration. People with this condition are frequently described as arrogant, self-centered, manipulative, and demanding. They may also have grandiose fantasies and may be conv…

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https://www.merckmanuals.com/en-ca/professional/psychiatric-disorders/personality-disorders/obsessive-compulsive-personality-disorder-ocpd

This resource is quite informative and outlines general information on OCPD including symptoms and signs, as well as steps to the diagnosis, and several treatment options.

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Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) - Psychiatric Disorders - Merck Manuals Professional Edition

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Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) - Etiology, pathophysiology, symptoms, signs, diagnosis & prognosis from the Merck Manuals - Medical Professional Version.

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https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9761-avoidant-personality-disorder

This resource outlines several symptoms, and points out the difficultly in concretely diagnosing Obsessive compulsive disorders in childhood despite symptoms because patterns of behaviour have to be established for a more accurate diagnosis.

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Overview

What is avoidant personality disorder?

Avoidant personality disorder is one of a group of conditions known as personality disorders. These disorders, in general, are enduring patterns of behavior out of keeping with cultural norms that cause emotional pain for an individual or those around them. Avoidant personality disorder is grouped with other personality disorders marked by feelings of nervousness and fear. People with avoidant personality disorder have chronic feelings of inadequacy and are highly sensitive to being negatively judged by others. Though they would like to interact with others, they tend to avoid social interaction due to the intense fear of being rejected by others.

How common is avoidant personality disorder?

It is estimated that about 2.4% of the U.S. population has avoidant personality disorder. It appears to affect men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB) and women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) equally. Like other personality disorders, avoidant personality disorder symptoms may be noticed in childhood and often begin to create discomfort in adolescence or early adulthood. Avoidant personality disorder usually isn't diagnosed in people younger than 18 years of age like many other personality disorders, as there should be evidence that these patterns of behavior are enduring and inflexible and don't readily fade with time.

Symptoms and Causes

What causes avoidant personality disorder?

The exact cause of avoidant personality disorder isn't known. However, it's believed that both genetics and environment play a role. It's also believed that avoidant personality disorder may be passed down in families through genes, but this hasn't yet been proven. Environmental factors, particularly in childhood, do play an important role. Shyness, often normal in young children, lasts into adolescents and adulthood in those with avoidant personality disorder. Those with the disorder often report past experiences of parental or peer rejection, which can impact a person's self-esteem and sense of worth.

What are the symptoms of avoidant personality disorder?

For people with this disorder, the fear of rejection is so strong, they choose isolation rather than risk being rejected in a relationship. The pattern of behavior in people with this disorder can vary from mild to extreme. In addition to their fear of humiliation and rejection, other common traits of people with this disorder include:

They're oversensitive and easily hurt by criticism or disapproval.

They have few, if any, close friends and are reluctant to become involved with others unless certain of being liked.

They experience extreme anxiety (nervousness) and fear in social settings and relationships, leading them to avoid activities or jobs that involve being with others.

They tend to be shy, awkward, and self-conscious in social situations due to a fear of doing something wrong or being embarrassed.

They tend to exaggerate potential problems.

They seldom try anything new or take chances.

They have a poor self-image, seeing themselves as inadequate and inferior.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is avoidant personality disorder diagnosed?

If symptoms are present, a healthcare provider will begin an evaluation by performing a complete medical history and physical examination. Although there aren't any laboratory tests to specifically diagnose personality disorders, a provider might use various diagnostic tests to rule out physical illness as the cause of the symptoms.

If the provider finds no physical reason for the symptoms, they might refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist, healthcare professionals who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illnesses. Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a person for a personality disorder like avoidant personality disorder.

Management and Treatment

How is avoidant personality disorder treated?

Treating personality disorders is difficult because people with these disorders have deep-rooted patterns of thinking and behavior that have existed for many years. However, people with avoidant personality disorder tend to be good candidates for treatment because their disorder causes them significant distress, and most want to develop relationships. This desire can be a motivating factor for people with avoidant personality disorder to follow their treatment plans.

As with other personality disorders, psychotherapy is the main treatment for avoidant personality disorder. Psychotherapy is a type of individual counseling that focuses on changing a person's thinking (cognitive therapy) and behavior (behavioral therapy). Therapy is likely to focus on overcoming fears, changing thought processes and behaviors, and helping the person better cope with social situations. Medication - such as an antidepressant or anti-anxiety drug - might be used to help manage the anxiety felt by people with this disorder. For the best results, however, medication therapy should be done in combination with psychotherapy. Treatment for people with this disorder is most effective when family members are involved and supportive.

What are the complications of avoidant personality disorder?

Without treatment, a person with this disorder can become isolated from society, causing long-term difficulties with work and social functioning. They're also at greater risk for depression and substance abuse.

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Prevention

Can avoidant personality disorder be prevented?

Although it might not be possible to prevent this disorder, it might be helpful to begin treatment in people as soon as they begin to have symptoms.

Outlook / Prognosis

What is the outlook for people with avoidant personality disorder?

As with other personality disorders, treatment for avoidant personality disorder is a long process. The willingness of the individual to seek and stay with treatment can have a significant effect on treatment success and, therefore, the outlook. With treatment, some people with avoidant personality disorder can learn to relate to others more appropriately.

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Avoidant Personality Disorder: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

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Avoidant personality disorder is marked by poor self-esteem and intense fear of rejection, possibly due to a combination of genetics and environment. Treatment is possible.

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https://psychcentral.com/disorders/dependent-personality-disorder/symptoms#in-real-life

This resource outlines how symptoms of Dependent Personality Disorder might manifest in real life and the resilience factors that can help in managing the disorder and it's symptoms.

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Fear of "going it alone," always second-guessing yourself, and depending on reassurance. Understand how to overcome the symptoms of this condition.

Dependent personality disorder is defined as a very intense and overwhelming need to be cared for - often accompanied by fears of being alone, abandoned, or disappointing others.

Folks with this condition might've been described as "clingy" or "needy." But others may just not understand the persistent self-doubt experienced, or that you're just trying to feel comfort or get direction on what to do.

Signs of this personality disorder usually start to appear in early adulthood.

Symptoms of dependent personality disorder may include:

difficulty making everyday decisions without outside advice

needing others to take charge of major areas of your life

instinctively agreeing with others

lacking confidence to start things on your own

need for continual reassurance and support from others

feeling uncomfortable, anxious, bored, or helpless when alone

an urgent need to find someone new when a relationship ends

separation anxiety

Dependent personality disorder may look a little different, person to person.

Many people believe the negative thoughts they have about themselves are true - " I'm unlovable. I'm too much. I just can't. "

But these are - not truth. Yet, these feelings can lead someone with dependent personality disorder to subconsciously seek out more care from others.

If the person you depend on for guidance gets frustrated or overwhelmed by your needs, you might think "Ah, I was right," and negative thoughts might now be validated for you. The cycle then continues as you may insctinctively try to shop for the same kind of comfort from others.

Some other examples of what dependent personality disorder might look like in daily life include:

Self-criticizing and self-doubt. You might, for example, refer to yourself as "stupid" over a mistake that you'd easily forgive in someone else.

Dodging responsibility at work. Staying away from big projects - or even just your basic duties - to avoid disappointing others could be a sign that your self-esteem might be affected by dependent personality disorder.

Steering away from social situations. You might sometimes decline invitations to hang out with those who aren't in your "inner council."

Complete lack of autonomy. You could be the life of the party when you're out with people you love, but you feel empty as soon as you're by yourself.

Masking insecurity. Even if people see you as outwardly confident, you might feel a disconnect between the person you show the world and how you feel inside. You might even feel like people who like and care about you don't actually feel that way.

Is dependent personality disorder the same as codependency?

While they might look similar, the key difference is in the nature of their interpersonal relationships.

Dependent personality disorder is a condition defined by a constant need to be taken care of; some say it's largely one-sided. Codependency, on the other hand, involves the compulsion to be needed by another, among other maladaptive coping behaviors.

With that said, it's possible for them to overlap.

Is dependent personality disorder genetic?

The answer isn't clear. Personality disorders, in general, aren't fully understood yet. But it's usually thought that personality disorders like dependent personality disorder are caused by one or a combination of factors:

Genetics. Some experts believe that having a family history of personality disorders predisposes someone to have one, as well.

Environment. Our experiences shape us. This is why some people believe that traumatic experiences in our lives are a cause of personality disorders.

All the above. Another school of thought is that trauma and stress can influence the development of a personality disorder in people who are genetically predisposed.

Personality disorders are diagnosed by a mental health professional. They'll compare the criteria for a diagnosis with your:

Since personality disorders are usually defined by long-standing patterns of behavior, they're usually diagnosed in adulthood.

Dependent personality disorder is a long-term condition that can be lived with, by making diligent use of therapy and medication. You can stand on your own and enjoy a fulfilling life while managing the condition.

If you're diagnosed with dependent personality disorder, your treatment might include:

There are no medications that have been approved for the specific treatment of dependent personality disorder. But common psychiatric medications are sometimes used to address some of dependent personality disorder's effects on mood in combination with talk therapy.

Therapy, with or without medication, may be the best route to explore for the time being. According to one , personality disorders among people with health-related anxiety - especially those with dependent traits - were found to benefit from CBT.

What you can try on your own

Beyond what your treatment plan includes therapeutically, there are a number of other things you can do on your own to help you manage dependent personality disorder.

These might include:

Introspective activities like meditation or journaling

Support groups where people understand your perspective

Practicing autonomy, bit by bit, a step in a healthful direction each day

Steps to build up your emotional intelligence and autonomous self include practical strategies like sleeping on decisions, so you can get a fresh take the next morning. This helps overcome second-guessing yourself or nagging indecisiveness.

To encourage autonomy in students, developmental psychologists cultivate these specific skills:

Expanding comprehensive thinking by becoming cognizant of the fact that you control what and how you think. Personal agency is bred from reflective self awareness and learning to express emotions healthily

Stretching your perceptions of your own competence

Asking your "inner circle" to hold you accountable for your own life choices and endeavors. The next time you come to them for guidance and reassurance, give them license to warmly put the onus back on you to make a choice for yourself

Like other personality disorders, dependent personality disorder can affect every aspect of your life.

Research from 2020 indicates that folks living with personality disorders have a higher rate of disabilities, healthcare use, and medical co-occuring medical conditions.

It's possible to lead a fulfilling life with dependent personality disorder if it's treated and managed. But those with untreated personality disorders are likelier to experience:

continued or worsened symptoms

sleep disorders

substance use disorders

chronic health conditions or chronic pain

obesity

suicide

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.

If you believe you're living with dependent personality disorder, you could benefit from reaching out to a mental health professional.

If you think someone you know may have it, you can gently encourage them to seek treatment - but make sure to come from a loving, nonjudgmental place.

Need a little more guidance? You can bookmark our guide for how to talk about mental illness.

If you need help finding someone who can provide a diagnosis and get you started on treatment, you can check out the American Psychiatric Association's Find a Psychiatrist tool. Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, is one of the key ways to start learning how to cope.

Dependent personality disorder can be anxiety inducing, fear filling, and fill you with indecision and insecurity. For your loved ones and those among your "inner circle," it can be taxing. But it is treatable.

With talk therapies, mindfulness, and educating yourself and your support group on the condition,you can live well.

If you're diagnosed, while your treatment team arranges a therapeutic program, you can make some emotional intelligence changes to manage dependent personality disorder while also staying true to yourself.

It's possible to still value closeness without letting dependent personality disorder take over your life. Recognizing how it affects you is an important step forward.

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Symptoms of Dependent Personality Disorder

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Fear of "going it alone," always second-guessing yourself, and depending on reassurance. Understand how to overcome the symptoms of this condition. Dependent personality disorder is defined as a very intense and overwhelming need to be cared for - often accompanied by fears of being alone, abandoned, or disappointing others.

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https://www.healthline.com/health/obsessive-compulsive-personality-disorder#symptoms

This resource effectively outlines the different treatment options that individuals can go through. As well as explains how other mental health diagnosis can be one of the risk factors of OCPD.

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Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is a personality disorder that's characterized by extreme perfectionism, order, and neatness. People with OCPD will also feel a severe need to impose their own standards on their outside environment.

People with OCPD have the following characteristics:

They find it hard to express their feelings.

They have difficulty forming and maintaining close relationships with others.

They're hardworking, but their obsession with perfection can make them inefficient.

They often feel righteous, indignant, and angry.

They often face social isolation.

They can experience anxiety that occurs with depression.

OCPD is often confused with an anxiety disorder called obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, they aren't the same.

People with OCPD have no idea that there's anything wrong with the way they think or behave. They believe that their way of thinking and doing things is the only correct way and that everyone else is wrong.

The exact cause of OCPD is unknown. Like many aspects of OCPD, the causes have yet to be determined. OCPD may be caused by a combination of genetics and childhood experiences.

In some case studies, adults can recall experiencing OCPD from a very early age. They may have felt that they needed to be a perfect or perfectly obedient child. This need to follow the rules then carries over into adulthood.

The International OCD Foundation (OCDF) approximates that men are twice as likely as women to be diagnosed with this personality disorder. According to the Journal of Personality Assessment, between 2 and 7 percent of the population has OCPD, making it the most prevalent personality disorder.

Those with existing mental health diagnoses are more likely to be diagnosed with OCPD. More research is needed to demonstrate the role that OCPD plays in these diagnoses.

Additionally, those with severe OCD are more likely to be diagnosed with OCPD.

The symptoms of OCPD include:

perfectionism to the point that it impairs the ability to finish tasks

stiff, formal, or rigid mannerisms

being extremely frugal with money

an overwhelming need to be punctual

extreme attention to detail

excessive devotion to work at the expense of family or social relationships

hoarding worn or useless items

an inability to share or delegate work because of a fear it won't be done right

a fixation with lists

a rigid adherence to rules and regulations

an overwhelming need for order

a sense of righteousness about the way things should be done

a rigid adherence to moral and ethical codes

OCPD is diagnosed when symptoms impair your ability to function and interact with others.
OCD: Symptoms, signs, and risk factors "
If you have OCPD, your therapist will likely use a three-pronged approach to treatment, which includes the following:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common type of mental health counseling. During CBT, you meet with a mental health professional on a structured schedule. These regular sessions involve working with your counselor to talk through any anxiety, stress, or depression. A mental health counselor may encourage you to put less emphasis on work and more emphasis on recreation, family, and other interpersonal relationships.

Medication

Your doctor may consider prescribing a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) to decrease some anxiety surrounding the obsessive-compulsive cycle. If you're prescribed an SSRI, you may also benefit from support groups and regular treatment from a psychiatrist. Long-term prescription use isn't usually recommended for OCPD.

Relaxation training

Relaxation training involves specific breathing and relaxation techniques that can help decrease your sense of stress and urgency. These symptoms are common in OCPD. Examples of recommended relaxation practices include yoga, tai chi, and Pilates.
What is Jacobson's relaxation technique? "
The outlook for someone with OCPD may be better than the outlook for other personality disorders. Treatment can help give you greater awareness of how the symptoms of OCPD can adversely affect others. If you have OCPD, you may be less likely to become addicted to drugs or alcohol, which is common with other personality disorders.

As with other personality disorders, finding the treatment that works for you is the foundation of success. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help improve your ability to interact and empathize with your loved ones.
Affective disorders "
If you suspect that your spouse, partner, or family member has OCPD, pay attention to their obsessions and their compulsive behaviors. A person most likely has OCD or another personality that's not OCPD if their obsessions are:

motivated by danger

limited to two or three specific areas of life

irrational or bizarre

People with OCPD are typically reluctant to change their behaviors. They often see others as the problem instead.

Most individuals that get treatment for OCPD are encouraged to do so by a spouse or loved one. However, it can be very difficult to approach someone with OCPD about their behaviors. It can also be helpful for significant others and loved ones of people with OCPD to seek support for themselves.

There are multiple forums and support groups that a spouse or loved one of someone with OCPD can join. The International OCD Foundation keeps a list of support groups for those coping with OCD, OCD tendencies, and personality disorders such as OCPD.
Do you have relationship OCD? "

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Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)

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Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is a personality disorder that's characterized by extreme perfectionism, order, and neatness. People with OCPD will also feel a severe need to impose their own standards on their outside environment. People with OCPD have the following characteristics: They find it hard to express their feelings.

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https://iocdf.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/OCPD-Fact-Sheet.pdf

This resource can be a convenient resource as it summarizes concise information of the disorder through a factsheet which can be useful to refer to as a CYC worker or even hand out to a patient.
This resource additionally outlines other causes that might lead to OCPD including aspects of culture and religions as risk factors in some societies.

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This resource outlines the different causes that might lead to the development of Avoidant Personality Disorder including genetic, social, environmental and psychological factors.
This resource is also helpful in that it suggests practices that can improve resilience factors, which patients can refer to for positive outcomes.

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Avoidant personality disorder is an enduring pattern of avoidance of interpersonal connections out of fear of disapproval, rejection, and ridicule. Learn more about AVPD, including common traits and treatment.

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https://www.merckmanuals.com/en-ca/professional/psychiatric-disorders/personality-disorders/avoidant-personality-disorder-avpd

This resource outlines the comorbidities that are common with this disorder that might lead to experiencing more severe symptoms.

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Patients with avoidant personality disorder avoid social interaction, including those at work, because they fear that they will be criticized or rejected or that people will disapprove of them, as in the following situations:

These patients assume people will be critical and disapproving until rigorous tests proving the contrary are passed. Thus, before joining a group and forming a close relationship, patients with this disorder require repeated assurances of support and uncritical acceptance.

Patients with avoidant personality disorder long for social interaction but fear placing their well-being in the hands of others. Because these patients limit their interactions with people, they tend to be relatively isolated and do not have a social network that could help them when they need it.

These patients are very sensitive to anything slightly critical, disapproving, or mocking because they constantly think about being criticized or rejected by others. They are vigilant for any sign of a negative response to them. Their tense, anxious appearance may elicit mockery or teasing, thus seeming to confirm their self-doubts.

Low self-esteem and a sense of inadequacy inhibit these patients in social situations, especially new ones. Interactions with new people are inhibited because patients think of themselves as socially inept, unappealing, and inferior to others. They tend to be quiet and timid and try to disappear because they tend to think that if they say anything, others will say it is wrong. They are reluctant to talk about themselves lest they be mocked or humiliated. They worry they will blush or cry when they are criticized.

Patients with avoidant personality disorder are very reluctant to take personal risks or participate in new activities for similar reasons. In such cases, they tend to exaggerate the dangers and use minimal symptoms or other problems to explain their avoidance. They may prefer a limited lifestyle because of their need for security and certainty.

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Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD) - Psychiatric Disorders - Merck Manuals Professional Edition

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Patients with avoidant personality disorder avoid social interaction, including those at work, because they fear that they will be criticized or rejected or that people will disapprove of them, as in the following situations: These patients assume people will be critical and disapproving until rigorous tests proving the contrary are passed.

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https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/dependent-personality-disorder/

This resource explains some causes of Dependent Personality Disorder including biological, developmental, psychological and temperamental factors such as parenting styles, early childhood experiences such as illness and more. This might be helpful for CYC workers that are looking to better contextualize their patients symptoms and causes.

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The Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab

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Megan Hull is a content specialist who edits, writes and ideates content to help people find recovery. As a Florida born-and-raised... read more

Medically Reviewed By Krisi Herron, LCDC

Krisi Herron is an Adjunct Psychology Professor, a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and a freelance... read more

Dependent personality disorder can create sorrow for both those who have the illness as well as their loved ones. Signs and symptoms of dependent personality disorder may include an enduring need to be taken care of and fear of being separated from important individuals in their life. This dependent personality often displays submissive characteristics, which provokes care-giving and protective behaviors in other people. The dependent behavior may seem needy to family, friends and acquaintances.

Individuals with dependent personality disorder, also referred to as DPD, are often described as gloomy and self-doubting. It is common for them to belittle their talents or abilities, and may constantly refer to themselves as worthless.

Dependent personality disorder is a mental disorder where individuals have a difficult time making everyday decisions without advice and reassurance from people who are important to them. Any criticism or disapproval may give them self-proof of their assumed worthlessness. They may easily lose faith in themselves and might avoid situations that involve responsibility to evade making decisions.

These individuals might feel so incapable of functioning alone that they will agree to situations and experiences that make them uncomfortable, rather than risk losing the person they are dependent on for guidance. They might pretend they agree with something they are opposed to rather than lose the support or friendship of the person they depend on.

With dependent personality disorder, regular daily activities may be impaired if independence or creativity is required. These individuals usually keep a limited few others in their social circle, mostly only people who they are dependent on. When an individual with dependent personality is in a relationship that has ended, they may immediately seek another relationship to provide the support they need. Fears of abandonment may preoccupy their mind.

While being clingy as a child or in a relationship may seem like a common occurrence, an individual with dependent personality disorder may become emotionally over-dependent on others. They may focus more time and effort on trying to please others. Individuals with dependent personality disorder tend to display needy behavior that's caused by an underlying fear of separation.

Symptoms of dependent personality disorder may also include:

Inability to make everyday decisions, such as what to wear, without the reassurance of other people

Dependence on other people to make decisions like where to work and live

Escaping adult responsibilities by acting helpless

Overly sensitive to criticism

Willing to endure being neglected or abused, and often putting other people's needs before their own

Intense and unrealistic fear of abandonment or being alone and a sense of devastation or helplessness when relationships end

Avoiding starting tasks or projects because of lack of self-confidence

Evading disagreements with other people for fear of losing their support or friendship

Like many personality disorders, dependent personality disorder naturally decreases in intensity with age. Most commonly, individuals experience their most extreme symptoms before they reach their 40s or 50s.

A determined cause for dependent personality disorder is unknown. However, the disorder usually appears in early adulthood and is linked to separation anxiety in an individual's childhood. Youth who experienced a prolonged physical illness may also be at higher risk of developing dependent personality disorder. Women are more likely than men to have dependent personality disorder.

Although the exact cause is not known, it almost certainly involves a combination of biological, developmental, psychological and temperamental factors. Some researchers believe an overprotective parenting style can contribute to the development of dependent personality traits in individuals who are already vulnerable to the disorder.

Personality disorders are typically diagnosed by a trained mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. While the individual can consult a family physician about this problem, they should be referred to a mental health professional for diagnosis and treatment. Rather than blood tests and genetic tests are given by a physician, this disorder will need to be measured by a dependent personality disorder test.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines dependent personality disorder as an excessive and pervasive need to be taken care of with behavior that is submissive, clinging and needy due to fear of abandonment. This disorder may be expressed by the need for reassurance and desperately seeking relationships when one ends. It may also be expressed by other symptoms listed above.

The onset of dependent personality disorder usually occurs during young adulthood, although it can appear in adolescence as well. In an adolescent, there may be natural dependence on the parent, which is completely age appropriate. This is why it is not diagnosed often in adolescence. It becomes concerning when they may not be able to function or adapt without their parents making everyday decisions for them.

It is statistically more likely for a female to be diagnosed with dependent personality disorder than a male. The disorder is also more prevalent in individuals who grew up with a very strict authoritarian parenting style where decisions are made for children, giving them little to no independence. Some other risk factors that might contribute to the development of this disorder include:

History of neglect

An abusive upbringing

Being in a long-term, abusive relationship

Family history of anxiety disorders

As the most commonly diagnosed personality disorder, dependent personality disorder is found in about 14 percent of individuals who have personality disorders, which is around 2.5 percent of the general population. Dependent personality disorder patients have a higher rate of emotional abuse during childhood than those who have other personality disorders.

These individuals may also have a higher risk of cognitive function deficits, which could explain their difficulty with everyday decisions.

Dependent personality disorder has also been shown to present itself with mood and anxiety disorders, such as depression, phobias and obsessive‐compulsive disorder. Patients have shown to have less successful treatment outcomes when they have the combination of mood disorder and dependency traits.

If you are or a loved one is in need of help or assistance in treatment, The Recovery Village has several facilities that can help individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. People who struggle with dependent personality disorder symptoms can receive help from one of The Recovery Village's facilities located in five states throughout the country. If you or a loved one has dependent personality disorder, call The Recovery Village to speak with a representative today.

Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.

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Dependent Personality Disorder - The Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab

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Megan Hull is a content specialist who edits, writes and ideates content to help people find recovery. As a Florida born-and-raised... read more Medically Reviewed By Krisi Herron, LCDC Krisi Herron is an Adjunct Psychology Professor, a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and a freelance...

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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/personality-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20354463

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Overview

People have unique personalities made up of a complex combination of different traits. Personality traits affect how people understand and relate to the world around them, as well as how they see themselves.

Ideally, people's personality traits allow them to flexibly adapt to their changing environment in ways that lead to more healthy relationships with others and better coping strategies. When people have personality traits that are less adaptive, this leads to inflexibility and unhealthy coping. For example, they may manage stress by drinking or misusing drugs, have a hard time managing their anger, and find it hard to trust and connect with others.

Personality forms early in life. It is shaped through a blend of your:

Genes - Your parents may pass down some personality traits to you. Sometimes these traits are called your temperament.

Environment - This includes your surroundings, events that have happened to you and around you, and relationships and patterns of interactions with family members and others.

A personality disorder is a mental health condition where people have a lifelong pattern of seeing themselves and reacting to others in ways that cause problems. People with personality disorders often have a hard time understanding emotions and tolerating distress. And they act impulsively. This makes it hard for them to relate to others, causing serious issues, and affecting their family life, social activities, work and school performance, and overall quality of life.

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Symptoms

In some cases, you may not know that you have a personality disorder. That's because how you think and behave seems natural to you. You also may think others are responsible for your challenges.

There are many types of personality disorders, each with important differences. These disorders are organized into three groups, or clusters, with shared features and symptoms:

Group A personality disorders

Group A personality disorders have a consistently dysfunctional pattern of thinking and behavior that reflects suspicion or lack of interest in others. They include:

Paranoid personality disorder

Schizoid personality disorder

Appears to be cold to or not interested in others.

Almost always chooses to be alone.

Is limited in how emotions are expressed.

Cannot take pleasure in most activities.

Cannot pick up typical social cues.

Has little to no interest in having sex with another person.

Schizotypal personality disorder

Has unusual thinking, beliefs, speech or behavior.

Feels or thinks strange things, such as hearing a voice whisper their name.

Has flat emotions or emotional responses that are socially unusual.

Has social anxiety, including not being comfortable making close connections with others or not having close relationships.

Responds to others in ways that are not proper or shows suspicion or lack of interest.

Has "magical thinking"- the belief that their thoughts can affect other people and events.

Believes that some casual incidents or events have hidden messages.

Group B personality disorders

Group B personality disorders have a consistently dysfunctional pattern of dramatic, overly emotional thinking or unpredictable behavior. They include:

Borderline personality disorder

Histrionic personality disorder

Always seeks attention.

Is overly emotional or dramatic or stirs up sexual feelings to get attention.

Speaks dramatically with strong opinions but has few facts or details to back them up.

Is easily led by others.

Has shallow emotions that change quickly.

Is very concerned with physical appearance.

Thinks relationships with others are closer than they are.

Narcissistic personality disorder

Antisocial personality disorder

Group C personality disorders

Group C personality disorders have a consistently dysfunctional pattern of anxious thinking or behavior. They include:

Avoidant personality disorder

Is very sensitive to criticism or rejection.

Does not feel good enough, important or attractive.

Does not take part in work activities that include contact with others.

Is isolated.

Does not try new activities and does not like meeting new people.

Is extremely shy in social settings and in dealing with others.

Fears disapproval, embarrassment or being made fun of.

Dependent personality disorder

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder

Focuses too much on details, orderliness and rules.

Thinks everything needs to be perfect and gets upset when perfection is not achieved.

Cannot finish a project because reaching perfection is not possible.

Needs to be in control of people, tasks and situations.

Cannot assign tasks to others.

Ignores friends and enjoyable activities because of too much focus on work or a project.

Cannot throw away broken or worthless objects.

Is rigid and stubborn.

Is not flexible about morality, ethics or values.

Holds very tight control over budgeting and spending money.

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder is not the same as obsessive-compulsive disorder, which is an anxiety disorder.

Many people with one type of personality disorder also have symptoms of at least one other type. The number of symptoms a person has may vary.

When to see a doctor

If you have any symptoms of a personality disorder, see your doctor or a mental health professional. When personality disorders are not treated, they can cause serious issues in relationships and mood. Also, the ability to function and pursue personal goals may get worse without treatment.

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Causes

It's believed that personality disorders are caused by a blend of how genetics and your environment affect you. Your genes may make it more likely that you develop a personality disorder, and what happens to you in life may set a personality disorder into motion.

Risk factors

Although the specific causes of personality disorders are not known, some factors seem to increase the risk of having one:

Specific personality traits. This includes always trying to stay away from harm, or the opposite - a strong need to seek out new activities that get the adrenaline pumping. It also includes poor impulse control.

Early life experiences. This includes a home environment that is not stable, predictable or supportive. It also includes a history of trauma - physical neglect or abuse, emotional neglect or abuse, or sexual abuse.

Complications

Personality disorders can seriously disrupt your life and the lives of those who care about you. They may cause issues in relationships, work or school. And they can lead to social isolation, other mental health issues with addictions, as well as occupational and legal issues.

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Personality disorders - Symptoms and causes

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A person with this mental health condition thinks, acts and behaves in a rigid pattern that's not healthy. It's hard to understand and relate to others.

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https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/borderline-personality-disorder

This resource outlines a variety of causes for Borderline personality disorder including family history or social factors such as adversity during childhood.
Furthermore structural and functional changes in the brain are mentioned as potential risk factors as these affect areas in the brain responsible for impulses and emotional regulation.

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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

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What is borderline personality disorder?

Borderline personality disorder is a mental illness that severely impacts a person's ability to manage their emotions. This loss of emotional control can increase impulsivity, affect how a person feels about themselves, and negatively impact their relationships with others. Effective treatments are available that can help people manage the symptoms of borderline personality disorder.

What are the signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder?

What are the risk factors for borderline personality disorder?

How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed?

How is borderline personality disorder treated?

How can I find help for borderline personality disorder?

How can I find a clinical trial for borderline personality disorder?

Where can I learn more about borderline personality disorder?

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Learn about borderline personality disorder, including signs and symptoms, risk factors, treatments and therapies, and tips for family and caregivers.

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https://childmind.org/guide/quick-guide-borderline-personality-teens-young-adults/

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Lo sentimos, la página que usted busca no se ha podido encontrar. Puede intentar su búsqueda de nuevo o visitar la lista de temas populares.

What is borderline personality disorder?

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that comes with extreme emotions, intense challenges with self-esteem, and difficulty forming strong, stable relationships with others. Teenagers with BPD are often angry, impulsive, and quick to believe that other people have wronged them.

Young people with BPD often harm themselves and they have a high risk of suicide. Symptoms of BPD usually show up in the teenage years. Early treatment can help people with BPD manage the disorder better.

What are the symptoms of BPD?

Symptoms of BPD include:

Unrealistic or unstable sense of self

Believing they're worthless

Regularly feeling angry, empty, or hopeless

Mood swings

Finding it hard to control emotions, especially anger

Brief, intense periods of anxiety or depression

Fear of being abandoned and desperate attempts to avoid it

Paranoid thinking

Quickly changing from loving or admiring someone to disliking or criticizing them

Impulsive behavior, such as risky driving, unsafe sex, or alcohol and substance abuse

Self-harm

Attempting suicide

A mental health professional must diagnose BPD. To be diagnosed with BPD, a person must have at least five of the symptoms listed above by the time they're a young adult.

What are the risk factors for BPD?

Kids are more likely to have BPD if they have a parent or sibling who also has BPD.

Experts view BPD as a combination of two big factors. The first is a natural tendency to get upset very easily. The second is growing up in a household that doesn't help kids learn to handle big emotions. Without support as children, young people who experience especially strong emotions may develop unhealthy ways of coping.

What is the treatment for BPD?

The best therapy for BPD is dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). DBT teaches patients skills to manage their emotions and stop harming themselves. It's called "dialectical" because it's about learning to balance two concepts that seem like opposites: the need for acceptance and the need for change. Long-term studies show that DBT works well for BPD.

There are no medications to treat BPD. However, medication can sometimes help specific symptoms of BPD, including depression, impulsive behavior and anxiety.

Teens with BPD who are in danger of suicide are sometimes hospitalized for treatment.

It is common for people with BPD to have other mental health disorders at the same time. Disorders that often show up with BPD include depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder and eating disorders.

People with BPD are also at risk of suicide. If you think your child or teenager is suicidal, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or 911 if there is an emergency. Don't wait - the risk of suicide in children and teenagers is very real.

We have over 60 guides and 700 articles available to help you (in Spanish too!).
Subscribe and get a curated selection weekly.

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Quick Guide to Borderline Personality Disorder - Child Mind Institute

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Lo sentimos, la página que usted busca no se ha podido encontrar. Puede intentar su búsqueda de nuevo o visitar la lista de temas populares. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that comes with extreme emotions, intense challenges with self-esteem, and difficulty forming strong, stable relationships with others.

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https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/everything-you-need-know-about-borderline-personality-disorder

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https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/paranoid-personality-disorder

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Paranoid personality disorder (PPD) is one of a group of conditions called "Cluster A" personality disorders which involve odd or eccentric ways of thinking. People with PPD also suffer from paranoia, an unrelenting mistrust and suspicion of others, even when there is no reason to be suspicious.

This disorder usually begins by early adulthood and appears to be more common in men than in women.

How Is Paranoid Personality Disorder Treated?

People with PPD often do not seek treatment on their own because they do not see themselves as having a problem. When treatment is sought, psychotherapy (a form of counseling) is the treatment of choice for PPD. Treatment likely will focus on increasing general coping skills, as well as on improving social interaction, communication, and self-esteem.

Because trust is an important factor of psychotherapy, treatment is challenging since people with PPD have such distrust of others. As a result, many people with PPD do not follow their treatment plan.

Medication generally is not a major focus of treatment for PPD. However, medications, such as anti-anxiety, antidepressant or antipsychotic drugs, might be prescribed if the person's symptoms are extreme, or if they also suffer from an associated psychological problem, such as anxiety or depression.

What Complications Are Associated With Paranoid Personality Disorder?

The thinking and behaviors associated with PPD can interfere with a person's ability to maintain relationships, as well as their ability to function socially and in work situations. In many cases, people with PPD become involved in legal battles, suing people or companies they believe are "out to get them."

What Is the Outlook for People With Paranoid Personality Disorder?

The outlook for people with PPD varies. It is a chronic disorder, which means it tends to last throughout a person's life. Although some people can function fairly well with PPD and are able to marry and hold jobs, others are completely disabled by the disorder. Because people with PPD tend to resist treatment, the outcome often is poor.

Can Paranoid Personality Disorder Be Prevented?

Although prevention of PDD might not be possible, treatment can sometimes allow a person who is prone to this condition to learn more productive ways of dealing with situations.

What Are the Symptoms of Paranoid Personality Disorder?

People with PPD are always on guard, believing that others are constantly trying to demean, harm, or threaten them. These generally unfounded beliefs, as well as their habits of blame and distrust, might interfere with their ability to form close relationships. People with this disorder:

Doubt the commitment, loyalty, or trustworthiness of others, believing others are using or deceiving them

Are reluctant to confide in others or reveal personal information due to a fear that the information will be used against them

Are unforgiving and hold grudges

Are hypersensitive and take criticism poorly

Read hidden meanings in the innocent remarks or casual looks of others

Perceive attacks on their character that are not apparent to others; they generally react with anger and are quick to retaliate

Have recurrent suspicions, without reason, that their spouses or lovers are being unfaithful

Are generally cold and distant in their relationships with others, and might become controlling and jealous

Cannot see their role in problems or conflicts and believe they are always right

Have difficulty relaxing

Are hostile, stubborn, and argumentative

What Causes Paranoid Personality Disorder?

The exact cause of PPD is not known, but it likely involves a combination of biological and psychological factors. The fact that PPD is more common in people who have close relatives with schizophrenia suggests a genetic link between the two disorders. Early childhood experiences, including physical or emotional trauma, are also suspected to play a role in the development of PPD.

How Is Paranoid Personality Disorder Diagnosed?

If physical symptoms are present, the doctor will begin an evaluation by performing a complete medical and psychiatric history and, if indicated, a physical exam. Although there are no laboratory tests to specifically diagnose personality disorders, the doctor might use various diagnostic tests to rule out physical illness as the cause of the symptoms.

If the doctor finds no physical reason for the symptoms, they might refer the person to a psychiatrist or psychologist, health care professionals who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illnesses. Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a person for a personality disorder.

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Paranoid personality disorder (PPD) is one of a group of conditions called "Cluster A" personality disorders which involve odd or eccentric ways of thinking. People with PPD also suffer from paranoia, an unrelenting mistrust and suspicion of others, even when there is no reason to be suspicious.

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https://psychcentral.com/disorders/schizoid-personality-disorder#symptoms

This resource outlines causes and symptoms that health care professionals use to determine if individuals meet the criteria to be diagnosed with Schizoid personality disorder. This could help CYC workers pin point patterns and signs in order to determine a starting point when interacting with a patient and be able to refer them to the adequate interventions.

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Everyone wants to be left alone sometimes. But if you're persistently avoiding social interactions and lack interest in close relationships, you may have schizoid personality disorder.

Schizoid personality disorder isn't the same as schizophrenia. This is a common misconception. They're actually two different mental health conditions. What's the difference?

When you live with schizoid personality disorder, you might not feel the need to seek help at first. This is because you're likely to function well in life. This means you can study and work and be productive under numerous circumstances.

But if you're interested in better understanding your personality and developing new tools that may improve your quality of life, a therapist can help. This article might also give you a few pointers to start with.

Schizoid personality disorder is one of 10 personality disorders identified in the recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This is a reference handbook that most mental health professionals use to make diagnoses.

Mental health professionals typically diagnose these personality disorders if they observe some or all of these general symptoms:

difficulty relating to yourself and others

personality traits that don't adjust to the social norm and make it difficult for you to adapt to change

persistent and long-standing patterns of behavior across most situations

distressing behavior and emotions not influenced by age, culture, illness, or substance use

Because all personality disorders are different, additional criteria are needed to make a specific diagnosis.

Personalities are grouped in three clusters based on the most dominant traits.

Schizoid personality disorder falls into cluster A. It's characterized by behavior or thoughts that are:

Other disorders in this group are schizotypal and paranoid personality disorders.

In general, if you have schizoid personality disorder, you might be what others call a "loner." This is because you usually keep to yourself and have no interest in seeking or keeping interpersonal relationships.

You're not outwardly sad or concerned about not having social contact. This includes romantic and family relationships.

If you experience symptoms of depression or anxiety, this might be related to the co-occurrence of other mental health conditions, and not the disorder itself.

Sexual encounters or building a family might not be among your personal goals, either, because you don't find any pleasure in these.

Because of all of this, you prefer solitary activities, for both fun and work.

In general, even though you're clear on your lack of interest in relationships, you might not be aware of this as a problem, nor do you experience great distress from your solitude.

This is why you may not, at first, seek help from a mental health professional.

It's estimated that about 7.5% of the global population has schizoid personality disorder. It's twice as common among males than females.

Schizoid personality disorder is a formal mental health diagnosis. Only a trained professional can diagnose it accurately. Psychologists and psychiatrists are most often the ones who make the diagnosis.

To do that, they will assess your behaviors, emotions, and attitudes, as well as your personal and medical history. This can be done by talking with you during one or more sessions. Then, they'll compare these observations to the criteria established by the DSM-5.

Symptoms from other mental health conditions might overlap with symptoms of schizoid personality disorder. You could have dominant traits from avoidant and paranoid personality disorders, for example.

When this happens, and you have a combination of dominant traits from different personality disorders, you wouldn't receive a diagnosis with all of them. Instead, you might receive a diagnosis of mixed personality disorder.

You could also have symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, and clinical depression.

Schizoid personality disorder is usually first noticed in early adulthood, although some symptoms may be present during childhood.

The DSM-5 criteria to diagnose someone with schizoid personality disorder involve a long-standing pattern of four or more of the following seven symptoms:

avoidance of close relationships, including family

preference for solitary activities

little, if any, interest in having sexual experiences with another person

time spent on few, if any, activities

lack of close friends or confidants

indifference to others' opinions

emotional detachment, or flattened emotion

Not everyone with schizoid personality disorder will have these symptoms in the same degree or intensity. At least four of them should be dominant over time and across different situations, though.

Also, many of us may display at least one schizoid personality disorder trait at some point in our lives, but this differs from a personality disorder in severity, frequency, and duration.

Schizoid personality disorder is a formal mental health diagnosis. Strict criteria must be met for a diagnosis that only a trained professional can make. The disorder doesn't refer to someone who:

enjoys being by themselves from time to time

plays video games or enjoys a few solitary activities

decides to stay single or have no children

is reserved and private with their emotions

enjoys daydreaming or fantasizing

has a small or tight circle of friends

doesn't get along with their family

Below is a basic overview of schizoid personality disorder symptoms that are established by the DSM-5:

Avoidance of close relationships

If you have schizoid personality disorder, you may feel no desire at all to create or maintain close relationships and actively avoid them, even with members of your family.

In fact, intimately interacting with others could make you feel extremely uncomfortable. This may lead others to perceive you as aloof and avoid being around you, too.

Even though you prefer being alone and don't want intimacy with others, you might still get a sense of frustration now and then when you sense others reject you or don't understand you.

This isn't enough for you to want to seek out an active relationship with them, though.

Preference for solitude

Since you're not interested in interacting with people or having close relationships, you might choose solitary activities most of the time. If given the option, you'll likely spend all of your time engaged in these activities instead of spending time with others.

This preference could take many forms. For example, you might come home after school and go straight to your room to play video games all night long. Or you could be surrounded by people but remain in your own world, indifferent to conversations and events around you.

Solitary activities don't give you any sense of being cooped up or isolated. You might not feel sad about being by yourself; you choose to be.

You might run into occupational problems if your job requires you to work as part of a team or in direct contact with others. This is why you prefer, and can do well in, positions that can be performed solo or from home.

Lack of interest in sexual experiences

Although not the rule, if you have schizoid personality disorder, you could have zero interest in being sexual with others, or in general.

If you do have some interest, you might choose sexual experiences that don't include another person. Maybe you have a very active fantasy life, even if you don't act on your fantasies.

If there's any sexual activity with another person, for you it's not about intimacy or connection.

Excited by few activities

If you have schizoid personality disorder, you might not find joy or pleasure in many activities. You could perhaps choose to spend your time on one or two activities, like video games or puzzles, but always in solitude.

You probably consider yourself more of an observer of life, rather than an active participant.

You may often get absorbed in your own fantasies, which might seem more interesting to you than what's going on around you. That's another reason why you may be perceived as detached from people and situations.

Lack of close friends or confidants

Because of your lack of interest in being in a relationship and interacting with other people, you might find yourself with very few, if any, confidants other than perhaps a first-degree relative.

You might not date much or want to get married. If you do, you're not interested in a close bond or establishing intimacy, sexual or otherwise.

Indifferent to other people's opinions

You might be truly indifferent to praise or criticism from other people. This means that you usually don't respond to people approving - or disapproving - of your behavior.

This could cause you social and personal problems because others might perceive you as self-absorbed and unreachable.

Flat affection and detachment

When you live with schizoid personality disorder, other people might describe you as humorless, cold, and inexpressive.

You might have a narrow range of emotions. You're not likely to express any of them.

This may be because, when it comes to emotions, you don't usually experience highs or lows. You might also have difficulty expressing any emotion at all in social settings. This, in turn, could translate into few facial expressions and a flat tone of voice.

But your main challenge might be in expressing these emotions, not necessarily in experiencing them.

In other words, you might not feel inclined to express or report your emotions to other people, but this isn't the same thing as lacking emotions altogether.

Schizoid personality disorder and autism spectrum disorder are two different diagnoses.

Sometimes, autism can look like schizoid personality disorder. But this is a superficial comparison that often comes from a misconception of what both diagnoses imply.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition. It's not a personality disorder. Autism can affect social interaction, among other things.

But an autistic person doesn't necessarily prefer to be alone or avoid intimacy. They still have a desire to connect to others. This isn't the case for someone with schizoid personality disorder.

A few mental health conditions share the prefix "schizo," but they don't necessarily overlap or have the same symptoms. In this case, schizoid personality disorder isn't the same as schizophrenia.

The main difference between the two conditions is that people who have schizophrenia have persistent symptoms of psychosis, like hallucinations (seeing or hearing something that others don't) or delusions (false beliefs).

These aren't typical symptoms of schizoid personality disorder. People with schizoid personality disorder don't experience distortions of reality.

Also, if you have schizoid personality disorder, you retain your ability to think abstractly, and can speak clearly and in an organized fashion. This may not be the case for people living with schizophrenia when they're experiencing an episode.

Sometimes, before receiving a diagnosis of schizophrenia, a person might have received a diagnosis of schizoid personality disorder or another cluster A personality disorder at some point in their life. This is because they might share a few similar causes and social isolation symptoms.

In other words, in some cases, a cluster A personality disorder might precede or be the first sign of a future schizophrenia diagnosis.

This isn't the rule, though, nor does it mean that a schizoid personality disorder diagnosis will always lead to or cause schizophrenia.

Both schizoid and antisocial personality disorders are mental health diagnoses, but each condition has its own diagnostic criteria and symptoms. There are many differences and very few, if any, similarities.

Antisocial personality disorder is, as its name indicates, antisocial. This means that there's an intense dislike and contempt of all other people but no real desire to live in isolation.

There's also a tendency in antisocial personality disorder to go against social norms, show aggressive behaviors, and lack remorse.

On the other hand, if you have schizoid personality disorder, you're considered more asocial than antisocial. You have a lack of interest in interacting with others while not having strong emotions toward them.

There's rarely ever impulsivity or destructive behaviors in schizoid personality disorder because you have no interest in connecting or harming others.

This is, of course, a fundamental comparison. There are other important differences between these two personality disorders. Only a mental health professional can make an accurate diagnosis.

Schizoid personality disorder is more likely to coexist with other types of personality disorders, like:

But it's rare to find overlapping symptoms between schizoid and antisocial personality disorders.

It's a common misconception that people with some personality disorders are violent or dangerous.

There's not enough scientific evidence to suggest there might be an increased risk of violent behavior if you have a schizoid personality disorder diagnosis compared with other personality disorders or no diagnosis at all.

The misconception might come from the confusion between schizoid and antisocial personality disorders or schizoid personality disorder and schizophrenia.

While there may be a tendency for violent behaviors in antisocial personality disorder and some cases of schizophrenia, there's close to none in schizoid personality disorder.

In fact, because of a clear tendency to not experience and express strong emotions, if you have schizoid personality disorder, you rarely ever get angry or feel hatred, even when provoked.

In the few reported cases of violence in someone with schizoid personality disorder, it's been likely related to co-occurring mental health conditions, not schizoid personality disorder itself.

If you've received a diagnosis of schizoid personality disorder, you may be wondering about the reasons why you have schizoid personality disorder.

There's actually no consensus within the medical community regarding what really causes a personality disorder.

It's commonly believed that it may be a combination of these factors:

environmental influences

cultural and social influences

early life experiences

childhood relationships

genetics and biology

In the case of schizoid personality disorder, there might be a tendency to develop the disorder if there's a first-degree relative who's received a diagnosis of:

schizoid personality disorder

schizotypal personality disorder

schizophrenia

But this doesn't mean it happens every time.

Other research suggests that depression and severe loneliness during the early years of life are linked to the development of schizoid personality disorder. This could be associated with experiences of:

Essentially, there's not enough research on schizoid personality disorder specifically to fully understand or establish its causes and risk factors.

Maybe you haven't considered treatment for schizoid personality disorder. This isn't uncommon.

You might not see yourself needing help with your emotions and behaviors, and you're not interested in forming a working relationship with a therapist anyway.

But treatment can provide you the opportunity to gain insight into your lifestyle choices and improve the quality of your life.

Psychotherapy seems to be the most effective way to treat schizoid personality disorder. It can help you:

become aware of your emotions and behaviors

develop or strengthen social skills

develop or strengthen cognitive skills

improve self-esteem

Once you start therapy, you can set your own goals together with your therapist, depending on what you want to get out of your treatment.

Some of the psychotherapy approaches most used to manage schizoid personality disorder are:

psychodynamic therapy

cognitive behavioral therapy

dialectical behavioral therapy

Medications are rarely used. When they are, it's usually because there might be co-occurring conditions that might benefit from it.

Schizoid personality disorder is a chronic mental health condition.

Even though you might not feel motivated to pursue it, psychotherapy can help you develop or acquire social skills that, in turn, could improve your quality of life.

These resources can help you take the first step:

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Everyone wants to be left alone sometimes. But if you're persistently avoiding social interactions and lack interest in close relationships, you may have schizoid personality disorder. Schizoid personality disorder isn't the same as schizophrenia. This is a common misconception. They're actually two different mental health conditions. What's the difference?

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https://psychcentral.com/health/signs-of-schizoid-personality-disorder#signs

This resource outlines the differences between Schizoid personality disorder and other disorders that share the same symptoms such as schizophrenia, antisocial personality disorder or autism and how to distinguish them.
This resource also extensively provides real life scenarios that relate to symptoms that individuals with the condition might find helpful.

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Mental health experts still know little about schizoid personality disorder, in large part because people with the condition often don't reach out for support.

In fact, 2019 research describes this cluster A personality disorder as "one of the most under-researched and poorly understood personality disorders."

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) describes the defining trait of schizoid personality disorder as a long-standing pattern of detachment and restraint in relationships and emotional expression.

Here's a more nuanced overview of what living with schizoid personality disorder may feel like:

You avoid close relationships

This avoidance stems from an overarching need for safety, Greenberg says.

You might want an intimate relationship, but your need to feel safe remains paramount. Since you consider other people a potential source of danger, you find bonding with others extremely difficult.

While you can navigate necessary interactions at school or work, you hold back and avoid getting too close. This leads others to consider you shy, even aloof.

To compensate for a lack of connection, you might spend a lot of time fantasizing about relationships you'd like to have, or "fall in love from a distance," Greenberg says.

You find ways to "accidentally" encounter the object of your affection, but you never try to establish a real relationship. If you end up with the chance to do so - maybe they express interest in you - your imagined relationship will typically win out, since it's both safe and predictable.

You prefer solitary activities and pastimes

Living with schizoid personality disorder tends to mean you're extremely independent and mostly keep to yourself.

Maybe you:

favor one-person hobbies, like video games, reading, or exercising alone

save most of your money so you can always take care of your basic needs without help from anyone

gravitate toward jobs you can do alone, or better yet, from home

avoid areas where other people gather in groups, unless you have to attend - even then, you stick to the fringes

There's absolutely nothing wrong with needing a lot of alone time to recharge. In fact, these traits could also describe an introverted person.

With introversion, though, you need that time to yourself because socializing drains you - not because it makes you feel unsafe and afraid. What's more, you'll probably still have a few close, important relationships.

You have little interest in sex

When you find it difficult to trust others and usually feel unsafe in social situations, it's only natural you'd lack interest in physical intimacy. Healthy relationships require trust, after all.

When having sex, you might feel somewhat detached and disconnected, rather than enjoy the experience.

If you do want a physical connection, you might:

choose unavailable people who already have a partner or lack time for a relationship

stick to casual sex and loosely defined, no-strings-attached relationships

escape as quickly as possible if the relationship ends up becoming any closer

You don't often feel excited

Greenberg says that people with schizoid personality disorder generally learn to dissociate from situations when they feel unsafe or stressed.

Over time, this dissociation can become a reflex, leaving you feeling detached and disconnected more often than not.

Your body might feel like a machine you're operating - something you have no attachment to. Life itself might feel like a stream flowing past you, while you sit quietly in the midst, an unconcerned, unruffled rock.

As a result of this emotional detachment, you consider your daily experiences mostly meaningless. You can meet academic and professional goals and handle tasks at school or work, but day-to-day life brings little joy. Life might seem more pointless than anything else - especially if something stressful happens to add to your sense of disconnect.

You have very few friends or confidants

To you, people are either safe or unsafe. Unsafe people (usually the vast majority) are best avoided.

Believing you can't trust others can, understandably, make it hard to confide in anyone. This avoidance, however, often prompts an overwhelming sense of loneliness.

Greenberg explains that people living with schizoid personality disorder tend to have a blurred or less-defined sense of self. "Often, they've never learned to negotiate more subtle boundaries, which leaves them more sensitive to intrusions," she says.

You might catch yourself zoning out during conversations when you can't connect to the other person, and avoid situations that require any interaction whenever possible. As a result, you may:

end up talking only to immediate family, like parents or siblings

get your needs for connection met through the elaborate relationships you imagine

bond with animals, since they feel safer than people

In time, your heightened sensitivity can lead to a complete avoidance of relationships - or a pattern of failed relationships with unavailable people.

People with schizoid personality disorder often develop a close bond with one "safety person," Greenberg notes. This friend or family member doesn't feel threatening, so you find it possible to let them in, to some extent.

You care little about what other people think

If you feel disconnected and detached from what you consider a mostly meaningless existence, you'll likely have little interest in the opinions of others.

It may not matter whether they praise you, criticize you, or show interest in your life and activities. Life is meaningless, you reason, so nothing matters.

These internalized feelings of existential dread and despair are common with schizoid personality disorder, according to Greenberg. They may not always reflect a desire to die, but simply a lack of connection to life.

You keep your emotions to yourself

With schizoid personality disorder, you certainly experience emotions. But dissociation and detachment can leave you feeling cut off from them.

When you feel stressed or unsafe, you might feel as if a wall springs up to sever you from your feelings.

Plus, emotions reflect another layer of vulnerability. Sharing feelings with others means trusting them with your concerns and difficulties - something that could threaten your sense of safety further. Instead of risking pain, you shut down completely in order to protect yourself.

Of course, sharing emotions is an important part of bonding in relationships. Guarding your feelings, then, only reinforces your solitude.

If you live with schizoid personality disorder, you might eventually find ways to adapt, especially when you can't avoid all social interactions.

The more you interact, the more you might begin to realize some people are, in fact, "safe." Over time, you can find it possible to create some social ties.

On the other hand, if you have underlying traits of schizoid personality disorder, isolation and a complete lack of interaction can trigger onset of the condition, or worsen existing symptoms.

"Pandemic isolation robbed many young people of the opportunity to learn social skills and practice negotiating relationships," Greenberg says. "At a time when others are starting to pair off and form lasting relationships, those with schizoid personality disorder yearn for intimacy, but intimacy doesn't feel safe."

Lockdowns and quarantine remove chances to interact and challenge your ideas about safety, so you continue the isolation that feels most comfortable to you. Over time, this pattern becomes even more entrenched - and harder to address.

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7 Signs You May Have Schizoid Personality Disorder (and Helpful Tips)

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Mental health experts still know little about schizoid personality disorder, in large part because people with the condition often don't reach out for support. In fact, 2019 research describes this cluster A personality disorder as "one of the most under-researched and poorly understood personality disorders."

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https://www.verywellmind.com/schizoid-personality-disorder-2795450

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Schizoid personality disorder (SPD) is a chronic and pervasive condition characterized by social isolation and feelings of indifference toward other people. Those who live with this disorder are often described as distant or withdrawn and tend to avoid social situations that involve interaction with other people.

They find it difficult to express emotions and lack the desire to form close personal relationships. This type of personality disorder is believed to be relatively rare and tends to affect more men than women. People with schizoid personality disorder are also at risk of experiencing depression.

Schizoid Personality Disorder Symptoms

People with schizoid personality disorder typically experience:

A preoccupation with introspection and fantasy﻿﻿

A sense of indifference to praise and affirmation, as well as to criticism or rejection

Detachment from other people

Little or no desire to form close relationships with others

Indifference to social norms and expectations

Infrequent participation in activities for fun or pleasure

Not enjoying social or family relationships

Often described as cold, uninterested, withdrawn, and aloof

Typical Onset

The disorder is often first noticeable during childhood and is usually apparent by early adulthood. The symptoms of the disorder can have an impact on multiple life domains including family relationships, school, and work.

The DSM-5 defines schizoid personality disorder as a "pervasive pattern of social and interpersonal deficits marked by acute discomfort with, and reduced capacity to form close relationships as well as by cognitive or perceptual distortions and eccentricities of behavior, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts."﻿﻿

Work-Life Impact

Those with this disorder also tend to have few friendships, date rarely, and often do not marry. The symptoms of the disorder may also make it difficult to work in positions that require a lot of social interaction or people skills. People with a schizoid personality disorder may do better in jobs that involve working in solitude.

Schizoid Personality Disorder vs. Schizophrenia

While schizoid personality disorder is considered one of the schizophrenia spectrum disorders and shares some common symptoms with schizophrenia and schizotypal personality disorder, there are important distinctions that separate SPD from those two disorders.

Those with SPD rarely experience paranoia or hallucinations.﻿﻿ Also, while they may seem aloof and distant during conversations, they do make sense when they speak, which differs from the difficult to follow speech patterns that often demonstrated by people with schizophrenia.

The causes of schizoid personality disorder are not known,﻿﻿ although it is believed that a combination of genetic and environmental factors play a role. Personality is shaped by a wide variety of factors including inherited traits and tendencies, childhood experiences, parenting, education, and social interactions. All of these factors may play some part in contributing to the development of SPD.﻿﻿

If you are concerned about your symptoms, you may start by consulting your doctor. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and check for any underlying medical conditions that might be contributing to your symptoms. In most cases, you will likely then be referred to a mental health professional.

The DSM-5 diagnostic criteria state that people must display at least four of the following symptoms in order to be diagnosed with SPD:

Always chooses solitary activities

Emotional detachment and lack of emotional expression﻿﻿

Experiences little pleasure from activities

Indifference to criticism or praise

Lack of desire or enjoyment for close personal relationships

Little or no interest in sex with other people

No close friends other than immediate family

Schizoid personality disorder is most often diagnosed by a psychiatrist or another mental health professional who is trained to diagnose and treat personality disorders. General practitioners often lack the training to make this type of diagnosis, especially since the condition is so uncommon and is often confused with other mental disorders.

People who have schizoid personality disorder rarely seek out treatment on their own. It is often only after the condition has severely interrupted multiple areas of a person's life that treatment is sought.

Schizoid personality disorder can be challenging to treat. Those with the disorder rarely seek treatment and may struggle with psychotherapy because they find it difficult to develop working relationships with a therapist.﻿﻿ The social isolation that characterizes schizoid personality disorder also makes it difficult to find support and assistance.

Medications may be used to treat some of the symptoms of schizoid personality disorder such as anxiety and depression. Such medications are usually used in conjunction with other treatment options such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or group therapy.

CBT can help people with SPD identify problematic thoughts and behaviors and develop new coping skills. Group therapy may help people practice interpersonal skills.

One-on-one therapy can seem intimidating for people with this condition because it requires a great deal of social interaction. Such treatments may be most effective when mental health professionals are careful to avoid pushing too hard and clients are not faced with excessive pressure and emotional demands.﻿﻿

Because of the nature of the condition, you might feel that it is simply easier to keep to yourself rather than seek out professional help. Even if you generally prefer solitude, people with schizoid personality disorder do experience loneliness and isolation. There are things that you can do to seek out support.

Consider joining a work or hobby-related social group. Because emotional intimacy can be challenging for people with schizoid personality disorder, you might find it easier to socialize with others in the context of an occupational or recreational pursuit. This can be a great way to develop social connections without overwhelming yourself.

If you have a loved one with this condition, you can help by avoiding judgment, being patient, and encouraging the individual to seek treatment. Avoid trying to push the individual into activities or relationships that make them feel uncomfortable or pressured. Instead, look for activities that you can do together that don't require a great deal of emotional investment.

A Word From Verywell

The condition is usually enduring, chronic, and lifelong, but with support and effective treatment, people who live with it can continue to live functional lives.

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Schizoid Personality Disorder Symptoms and Treatments

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Schizoid personality disorder (SPD) is a chronic and pervasive condition characterized by social isolation and feelings of indifference toward other people. Those who live with this disorder are often described as distant or withdrawn and tend to avoid social situations that involve interaction with other people.

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https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/antisocial-behavior-in-children

This resource could be a great tool for CYC workers as it outlines how to recognize negative behaviours as children age and develop. As well as the risk factors for antisocial behaviour in children.
This resource could also be quite informative for CYC workers as it outlines the different levels of strategies, such as primary intervention. Which seeks to engage students in school-wide activities that could deter antisocial behaviour, such a teaching conflict resolution, anger management skills and emotional literacy.

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It's normal for children to exhibit positive and negative social behaviors as they age and develop. Some kids lie, some rebel, some withdraw. Think the smart but introverted track star or the popular but rebellious class president.

But some children exhibit high levels of antisocial behaviors. They are hostile and disobedient. They may steal and destroy property. They might be verbally and physically abusive.

This type of conduct often means your child is showing signs of antisocial behavior. Antisocial behavior is manageable, but can lead to more severe problems in adulthood if left untreated. If you're worried that your child has antisocial tendencies, read on to learn more.

Antisocial behavior is characterized by:

aggression

hostility toward authority

deceitfulness

defiance

These conduct problems usually show up in early childhood and during adolescence, and are more prevalent in young boys.

There is no current data that reveals the number of children who are antisocial, but previous research places the number between 4 and 6 million, and growing.

Risk factors for antisocial behavior include:

school and neighborhood environment

genetics and family history

poor and negative parenting practices

violent, unstable, or tumultuous home life

Hyperactivity and neurological problems can also cause antisocial behavior. Youth with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been found to be at a higher risk of developing antisocial behavior.

Antisocial behavior can occasionally be identified in kids as young as 3 or 4 years old, and can lead to something more severe if not treated before age 9, or third grade.

The symptoms your child might exhibit include:

abusive and harmful to animals and people

lying and stealing

rebellion and violating rules

vandalism and other property destruction

chronic delinquency

Research shows that childhood antisocial behavior is associated with a higher rate of alcohol and drug abuse in adolescence. This is because of shared genetic and environmental influences.

Severe forms of antisocial behavior can lead to conduct disorder, or an oppositional defiant disorder diagnosis. Antisocial children may also drop out of school and have trouble maintaining a job and healthy relationships.

The behavior could also lead to antisocial personality disorder in adulthood. Adults living with antisocial personality disorder often display antisocial behavior and other conduct disorder symptoms before age 15.

Some signs of antisocial personality disorder include:

lack of conscience and empathy

disregard and abuse of authority and people's rights

aggression and violent tendencies

arrogance

using charm to manipulate

lack of remorse

Early intervention is key to preventing antisocial behavior. The Center for Effective Collaboration and Practice suggests that schools develop and implement three different prevention strategies.

1. Primary prevention

This would include engaging students in school-wide activities that could deter antisocial behavior, such as:

teaching conflict resolution

anger management skills

emotional literacy

2. Secondary prevention

This targets students who are at risk for developing antisocial tendencies and engaging them in individualized activities, including:

specialized tutoring

small group social skills lessons

counseling

mentoring

3. Tertiary prevention (treatment)

The third step is continuing intensive counseling. This treats antisocial students and students with chronic patterns of delinquency and aggression. The center suggests that families, counselors, teachers, and others coordinate efforts to treat children with antisocial behavior.

Other ways to treat antisocial behavior include:

problem solving skills training

cognitive behavioral therapy

behavioral family intervention

family therapy and adolescent therapy

Parents can also undergo parent management training to address any negative parenting issues that may contribute to the child's antisocial behaviors.

Research has found that warmth and affection, reasonable discipline, and an authoritative parenting style have positive outcomes for children. This can help them create positive relationships and improve school performance.

It is normal for children and teenagers to exhibit some antisocial tendencies, like being withdrawn or mildly rebellious. But for some kids, those tendencies can signal something more alarming.

Speak with your child if you're worried about their behavior so you can have a better sense of what's happening from their perspective. Make sure to also speak with a doctor so you can come up with an effective plan to treat your child's antisocial behavior.

It's important you address conduct problems as early in childhood as possible to prevent a more severe diagnosis in the future.

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It's normal for children to exhibit positive and negative social behaviors as they age and develop. Some kids lie, some rebel, some withdraw. Think the smart but introverted track star or the popular but rebellious class president. But some children exhibit high levels of antisocial behaviors. They are hostile and disobedient.

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https://www.verywellmind.com/antisocial-personality-disorder-2795566

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What Is Antisocial Personality Disorder?

Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a condition characterized by a lack of empathy and regard for other people. People who have antisocial personality disorder have little or no regard for right or wrong. They antagonize and often act insensitively or in an unfeeling manner. Individuals with this disorder may lie, engage in aggressive or violent behavior, and participate in criminal activity.

People with antisocial personality disorder:

May begin displaying symptoms during childhood; such behaviors may include fire setting, cruelty to animals, and difficulty with authority

Often have legal problems resulting from failures to conform to social norms and a lack of concern for the rights of others

Often act out impulsively and fail to consider the consequences of their actions

Display aggressiveness and irritability that often lead to physical assaults

Have difficulty feeling empathy for others

Display a lack of remorse for damaging behavior

Often have poor or abusive relationships with others and are more likely to abuse or neglect their children

Frequently lie and deceive others for personal gain

These characteristics often lead to major difficulties in many life areas. At its core, the inability to consider the thoughts, feelings, and motivations of other people can lead to harmful disregard for others.

As adults, the disorder can be destructive to both the person living with it and those who come into contact with them. People with antisocial personality disorder are more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviors, dangerous activities, and criminal acts. Those with the disorder are often described as having no conscience and feel no regret or remorse for their harmful actions.

Symptoms of antisocial personality disorder often begin during childhood although the condition is often not diagnosed until later in life. As children, it is common for those who develop this disorder to experience violent bursts of anger, show cruelty towards animals, and be described as bullies by their peers.

While the condition may begin in childhood, it cannot be officially diagnosed before the age of 18. Kids who display these symptoms are diagnosed with conduct disorder. In order to be diagnosed with ASPD, a person must display a disregard and violation of the rights of others before the age of 15. This disregard is indicated by displaying at least one of seven symptoms:

Disregard for the safety of the self and others

Failure to obey laws

Impulsive behavior

Irritability and aggression

Lack of remorse for actions

Lying or manipulating others for profit or amusement

Pattern of irresponsibility

In addition to displaying at least one of these symptoms, the person must be at least 18 years old and not display antisocial behavior as a result of another condition such as bipolar disorder to schizophrenia.

According to some critics, the DSM diagnostic criteria are too focused on behaviors related to criminal actions.﻿﻿ Concerns have been raised that the diagnosis may at times be misapplied to individuals in low socioeconomic or urban settings in which seemingly antisocial behavior may be a part of a protective survival strategy. ﻿﻿ Because of this, it is possible that the prevalence of this disorder has been overstated.

The exact causes of antisocial personality disorder are not known.﻿﻿ Personality is shaped by a variety of forces including nature and nurture.

ASPD is more common among the first-degree biological relatives of those with the disorder than in the general population. Research suggests that ASPD is likely strongly linked to inheritance and that environmental influences probably exacerbate its development.﻿﻿

Upbringing

Upbringing can also have an important influence. Childhood abuse, neglect, and trauma have also been linked to the onset of ASPD.﻿﻿ If a child's parents are abusive and dysfunctional, children may learn such behavioral patterns and later display them with their own kids.

Kids who grow up in disorganized and neglectful homes also lack the opportunities to develop a strong sense of discipline, self-control, and empathy for others.

Brain Differences

A number of factors have been found to increase the risk of the disorder including smoking during pregnancy and abnormal brain function. Research suggests that people with ASPD have differences in the frontal lobe, the area of the brain that plays a role in planning and judgment.

People with the disorder also tend to require greater stimulation and may seek out dangerous or even illegal activities to raise their arousal to an optimal level.

Treatments

Antisocial personality disorder is difficult to treat for a number of reasons. People with the disorder rarely seek out treatment on their own. Those who do generally receive treatment only after some type of altercation with the legal system.

While people with ASPD often come into contact with the criminal justice system, research suggests that incarceration and other punitive measures are largely ineffective since people with the condition are usually unresponsive to punishment.﻿﻿

Psychotherapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be useful in helping individuals gain insight into their behaviors and to change maladaptive thought patterns. Effective results usually occur only after long-term treatment. Group and family therapy as well as mentalization-based therapy, which targets the ability to recognize and understand the mental state of oneself and others, have also been studied for ASPD and show promise.

Medication

Medications may be used to treat some of the symptoms that a person with ASPDl may experience. Some of the medications that may be prescribed include:

Anti-anxiety medications

Antidepressants

Antipsychotics

Mood stabilizers

Antisocial personality disorder often has a significant impact on a person's ability to function, which can make it difficult to cope with many aspects of life.

According to the DSM-5, the condition can result in incarceration, injury, or death due to harmful or criminal actions.

It affects an individual's ability to work and maintain relationships.

The disorder also has the potential to cause harm to friends, family members, co-workers, and strangers who may be harmed by the person's actions.

Most people with ASPD do not seek help on their own and intervention likely only happens due to legal problems. Research suggests that those who have the best outlook are those who have stronger social support and better spousal and family ties.

If you have a loved one who has ASPD, you may find it helpful to talk to a mental health professional. They can help you learn coping skills that will help you set boundaries to protect yourself from harm. Group therapy and support groups may also be helpful resources of support and information.

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Symptoms and Treatment Options for Antisocial Personality Disorder

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Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a condition characterized by a lack of empathy and regard for other people. People who have antisocial personality disorder have little or no regard for right or wrong. They antagonize and often act insensitively or in an unfeeling manner.

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https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9743-histrionic-personality-disorder

This resource outlines the causes of Histrionic personality disorder from both learned and inherited factors. Such as genetics or environmental factors such as parenting styles.

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Overview

What is histrionic personality disorder?

Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) is a mental health condition marked by intense, unstable emotions and a distorted self-image. The word "histrionic" means "dramatic or theatrical."

For people with histrionic personality disorder, their self-esteem depends on the approval of others and doesn't come from a true feeling of self-worth. They have an overwhelming desire to be noticed and often behave dramatically or inappropriately to get attention.

People with histrionic personality disorder often don't realize their behavior and way of thinking may be problematic.

Histrionic personality disorder is one of a group of conditions called "Cluster B" personality disorders, which involve dramatic and erratic behavior.

Who does histrionic personality disorder affect?

Histrionic personality disorder usually begins in your late teens or early 20s.

Women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) are more commonly diagnosed with histrionic personality disorder than men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB), but researchers think that men and people AMAB may be underdiagnosed.

How common is histrionic personality disorder?

Histrionic personality disorder is relatively rare. Researchers estimate that about 1% of people have the condition.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the signs and symptoms of histrionic personality disorder?

The main feature of histrionic personality disorder is displaying excessive, superficial emotionality and sexuality to draw attention to themselves.

A person with histrionic personality disorder may:

Feel underappreciated or depressed when they're not the center of attention.

Have rapidly shifting and shallow emotions.

Be dramatic and extremely emotionally expressive, even to the point of embarrassing friends and family in public.

Have a "larger than life" presence.

Be persistently charming and flirtatious.

Be overly concerned with their physical appearance.

Use their physical appearance to draw attention to themselves by wearing bright-colored clothing or revealing clothing.

Act inappropriately sexual with most of the people they meet, even when they're not sexually attracted to them.

Speak dramatically and express strong opinions but with few facts or details to support their opinions.

Be gullible and easily influenced by others, especially by the people they admire.

Think that their relationships with others are closer than they usually are.

Have difficulty maintaining relationships, often seeming fake or shallow in their interactions with others.

Need instant gratification and become bored or frustrated very easily.

Constantly seek reassurance or approval.

What causes histrionic personality disorder?

Personality disorders, including histrionic personality disorder, are among the least understood mental health conditions.

Studies that have been done about histrionic and other personality disorders have identified several factors that may lead to the development of histrionic or other personality disorders:

Genetics: Histrionic personality disorder tends to run in families, so scientists think there may be a genetic (inherited) link.

Childhood trauma: Children may cope with trauma, such as child abuse or the death of a family member, that later as an adult may be disruptive or problematic in their life and become part of a personality disorder.

Parenting styles: Children who experience parenting styles that lack boundaries, are over-indulgent or inconsistent may be more likely to develop histrionic personality disorder. In addition, parents who display dramatic, erratic, volatile or inappropriate sexual behavior put their children at risk for developing this condition. Some researchers think that problems in parent-child relationships lead to the characteristic low self-esteem in people with HPD.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is histrionic personality disorder diagnosed?

Personality continues to evolve throughout child and adolescent development. Because of this, healthcare providers don't typically diagnose someone with histrionic personality disorder until after the age of 18.

Personality disorders, including histrionic personality disorder, can be difficult to diagnose since most people with a personality disorder don't think there's a problem with their behavior or way of thinking.

When they do seek help, it's often due to conditions such as anxiety or depression due to the problems created by their personality disorder, such as divorce or lost relationships, and not the disorder itself.

When a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, suspects someone might have histrionic personality disorder, they often ask broad, general questions that won't create a defensive response or hostile environment. They ask questions that will shed light on:

Past history.

Relationships.

Previous work history.

Reality testing.

Impulse control.

Because a person suspected of having histrionic personality disorder may lack awareness of their behaviors, mental health professionals might ask to collect information from the person's family and friends.

Mental health providers base a diagnosis of histrionic personality disorder on the criteria for the condition in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

Diagnosis criteria for histrionic personality disorder require meeting five (or more) of the following persistent behaviors:

Uncomfortable when not the center of attention.

Seductive or provocative behavior.

Shifting and shallow emotions.

Uses appearance to draw attention.

Impressionistic and vague speech.

Dramatic or exaggerated emotions.

Suggestible (easily influenced by others).

Considers relationships more intimate than they are.

Management and Treatment

How is histrionic personality disorder treated?

In most cases, people with histrionic personality disorder (HPD) don't believe their behaviors are problematic. They also tend to exaggerate their feelings and dislike routine, which makes following a treatment plan difficult. However, they might seek help if depression - possibly associated with a loss or a failed relationship - or another problem caused by their thinking and behavior causes them distress.

Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is generally the treatment of choice for histrionic or other personality disorders. The goal of treatment is to help the person uncover the motivations and fears associated with their thoughts and behavior and to help the person learn to relate to others more positively.

Types of psychotherapy that may benefit people with histrionic personality disorder include:

Group therapy: This is a type of psychotherapy in which a group of people meets to describe and discuss their problems together under the supervision of a therapist or psychologist. Group therapy may be of particular benefit to people with HPD, especially if it's with other people with HPD. It can help someone with HPD see their own behavior reflected back at them.

Psychodynamic psychotherapy: This type of therapy focuses on the psychological roots of emotional distress. Through self-reflection and self-examination, the person undergoing therapy looks into problematic relationship patterns in their life.

Supportive psychotherapy: This type of therapy aims to improve symptoms and maintain, restore or improve self-esteem and coping skills. Supportive psychotherapy involves the examination of relationships and patterns of emotional response or behavior.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This is a structured, goal-oriented type of therapy. A therapist or psychologist helps you take a close look at your thoughts and emotions. You'll come to understand how your thoughts affect your actions. Through CBT, you can unlearn patterns of negative thoughts and behaviors and learn to adopt healthier thinking patterns and habits.

While there's currently no medication that can treat personality disorders, there is medication for depression and anxiety, which people with histrionic personality disorder may also have. Treating these conditions can make it easier to treat histrionic personality disorder.

Prevention

Can histrionic personality disorder be prevented?

While histrionic personality disorder generally can't be prevented, treatment can allow a person who's prone to this condition to learn more productive ways of dealing with triggering behaviors, thoughts and situations.

Outlook / Prognosis

What are the possible complications of histrionic personality disorder?

People with histrionic personality disorder (HPD) are at a higher risk of developing depression and substance use disorders, such as cannabis use disorder and alcohol use disorder.

People with HPD are also more likely to have:

Somatic symptom disorder: Somatic symptom disorder is a disorder in which individuals feel excessively distressed about a physical symptom they have. They may also have abnormal thoughts, feelings and behaviors in response to their symptoms.

Panic attacks: A panic attack causes sudden, brief feelings of fear and strong physical reactions in response to ordinary, nonthreatening situations.

Conversion disorders: Conversion disorder, also called functional neurological symptom disorder, is a medical problem involving the loss of function of a part of your nervous system. More specifically, your brain and body believe that a part of your nervous system isn't functioning when there's no evidence of structural damage.

Extreme attention-seeking behavior in people with HPD may involve frequent suicidal threats and gestures.

What is the prognosis (outlook) for histrionic personality disorder?

While there's no cure for histrionic personality disorder (HPD), many people who have the condition often have productive lives. People with HPD who participate in talk therapy tend to have better outcomes as they gain insight into their condition and function better socially.

However, people with severe histrionic personality disorder may experience frequent problems at work and in social and/or romantic relationships.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
It's important to remember that histrionic personality disorder is a mental health condition. As with all mental health conditions, seeking help as soon as symptoms appear can help decrease the disruptions to your life. Mental health professionals can offer treatment plans that can help you manage your thoughts and behaviors.

The family members of people with histrionic personality disorder often experience stress, depression, grief and isolation. It's important to take care of your mental health and seek help if you're experiencing these symptoms.

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Histrionic Personality Disorder: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

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Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) is a mental health condition marked by intense, unstable emotions and a distorted self-image. The word "histrionic" means "dramatic or theatrical." For people with histrionic personality disorder, their self-esteem depends on the approval of others and doesn't come from a true feeling of self-worth.

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https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-histrionic-personality-disorder-is-treated-5194017

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Histrionic vs. Narcissistic Disorders: Differences Explained

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Histrionic vs. narcissistic personality disorders both involve attention-seeking behavior, but there are some key differences. Learn more about how they differ.

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https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-narcissistic-personality-disorder-2795446

This resource outlines various treatment options, and explains the factors that might contribute to this disorder. Such as early life experiences of abuse or trauma, as well as the the impact of parenting styles.

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What You Should Know About Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)

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Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a personality disorder marked by exaggerated self-importance, self-centeredness, lack of empathy, and need for attention.

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https://www.verywellhealth.com/narcissistic-personality-disorder-in-children-5215093

This resource could be a beneficial tool for CYC workers as it outlines the signs of symptoms to be on the look out for in children. As well as the other co-existing personality disorders that might affect children with NPD such as Borderline personality disorder.

This resource also outlines the potential causes of NPD which might help CYC workers put their patients symptoms and behaviour patterns in context.

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Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition where a person has an overly high sense of self-worth and wants others to admire them. NPD is one of several personality disorders recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Health Disorders, 5th edition ( DSM-5).

This condition can affect both children and adults, but there are some differences between the two groups. Learn more about narcissism in children, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

General Symptoms of NPD

The symptoms of narcissism in children are similar to the symptoms seen in adults with NPD. However, there are some differences between the two groups, and things to consider when narcissistic personality disorder is suspected.

Children go through phases throughout development that may include tendencies to be self-centered or have an inflated image of themselves. This is normal. It becomes more of a concern when these traits are still present after puberty.

General symptoms of NPD include:

Arrogance and a sense of superiority

Belittlement of others

Desire to only associate with people viewed as superior to others

Entitlement (feels they have the right to something that they don't)

Envy

Excessive need to be admired and have attention

Exploitation of others

Extreme, negative emotions or lack of emotion in response to negative or lack of attention

Extreme sense of self-importance, talent, or achievement

Fantasies of unlimited access to things such as power, sex, money, and attractiveness

Feelings of uniqueness, as if they are special

Hidden insecurities and shame

Lack of empathy

Perfectionism and negative emotions in response to falling short of perfection

Signs of NPD in Children

Some symptoms and traits of narcissism are a normal part of child development. Therefore, only those under age 18 who can be officially diagnosed with a personality disorder are teens with suspected borderline personality disorder (BPD). Narcissistic traits can be noted, but NPD currently cannot be diagnosed until the age of 18, as personality is thought to be variable until adulthood.

Children as young as 2 years old can show signs of narcissism. This is good because it is early enough that environmental and parenting influences can be changed to decrease the chances of the child developing NPD.

When assessing this condition in children, there are additional signs to consider that are unique to younger groups or do not apply to adults. For example, children may show signs related to their behaviors and attitude at school and how they play independently and with other children. These include:

Compromised friendship quality or relationship interactions

Discomfort or self-consciousness related to fantasy play

Excessive sensitivity to criticism or loss

Excessive social media posting, especially images of self

Expectation of special treatment from parents or other caregivers

Frequently checking mirrors

Inability to maintain eye contact

Inflated ego

Lack of friends

Learning difficulties unrelated to limited intelligence

Loss of interest in playing with toys

Lying as a form of justification, especially without remorse

Separation anxiety

Suspiciousness

Tantrums beyond what is considered normal

Causes of narcissistic personality disorder in children are not entirely understood. It is believed to be linked to biological factors (such as genetics) and environmental factors. However, there is also some contradiction in research about environmental and parental influences of narcissism.

For example, some people have thought that having parents who show children affection and appreciation can lead to narcissism. However, research has shown that while these parenting behaviors help to increase child self-esteem, the parenting behaviors that can actually lead to narcissism are those that reinforce their child's entitlement. A child is more likely to develop NPD if they believe that they are special compared to other children.

Other factors that may contribute to a child developing NPD include:

Abuse (both physical and emotional)

Adoption

Cultural influences

Death of a parent or caregiver

Divorce of parents

Excessive criticism

Extreme expectations from parents

Genetics or biological factors, including inherited personality traits

High sensitivity

Narcissistic parents

Neglect from parents or caregivers

Overindulgence or pampering from parents or other caregivers

Overprotective parenting style

Parents behaving as if their child were entitled or more special than other children

Peer or social influences

Traumatic experiences or trauma

How Parents Create Narcissistic Children

The experiences of children as they grow have an impact on how they develop. In the case of narcissism, parenting styles and the way parents view and interact with their children can influence the chances of their children developing NPD.

For example, parents help to foster self-esteem in children when they show their children appreciation and interact warmly and affectionately. Conversely, childhood narcissism can occur when a parent views their child as being better or more entitled than other children.

NPD Is No One's Fault

The first step in the treatment process for narcissism in childhood is to get an evaluation from a mental health professional such as a child psychologist or child psychiatrist. Psychotherapy ( talk therapy) is a treatment option for NPD and early signs of narcissism in children. There are many types of child therapy that can help with developing pathological (personality) traits, such as play therapy and those involving the family such as parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT).

Changes in parenting styles is another option specifically when addressing childhood NPD. Since parental behaviors can have a significant effect on their child's development, changing those parenting behaviors can be used as an intervention to decrease narcissism. Family therapy can help with improving parenting behaviors.

Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health condition affecting children and adults. It involves entitlement, an inflated sense of self, and interpersonal and relationship challenges.

There are special considerations in childhood narcissism, such as the normal phases of child development that include self-centeredness, behaviors, and interactions as children learn and grow. Additionally, parenting styles and behaviors can influence childhood narcissism, and they can be adjusted to help improve early signs of narcissistic tendencies.

Professional support from a child psychologist or therapist can help guide treatment and parenting changes.

A Word From Verywell

Childhood narcissism can be challenging and may come with feelings of shame. However, this is not the fault of parents, and changes can be made to prevent and help children cope with NPD.

If you think your child may be showing signs of narcissism, help is available. Reach out to a health professional, such as a psychologist, therapist, or another mental health provider for support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you deal with a narcissistic child?

When narcissism is suspected in a child, or when a child shows signs of narcissism, the first step is to seek the support of a qualified mental health professional such as a psychologist or therapist. These professionals can assess and diagnose, and then help parents learn strategies to better support children with narcissistic personality disorder.

Is narcissism related to psychological issues in children who come from divorced parents?

While the divorce of parents can be a stressful event for children and may increase the risk of narcissism, that does not mean the divorce of parents will lead to narcissistic personality disorder in children. The environmental risk of narcissism is related to overall stressful life events and lifestyle, including parenting styles and how the parents interact with the child.

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Narcissistic Personality Disorder in Children

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Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition where a person has an overly high sense of self-worth and wants others to admire them. NPD is one of several personality disorders recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Health Disorders, 5th edition ( DSM-5).