Personality Disorders Overview

A pervasive pattern of distrust and suspicion of others, interpreting their motives as malevolent. These individuals often feel threatened, are hypersensitive to criticism, and hold grudges. Their suspiciousness is not based on reality.

Relating to personality traits, often influenced by biological factors, that are present from a young age. These traits may include things like activity level, emotional reactivity, and attention span.

Referred to as Axis II disorders in previous editions of the DSM. These disorders are characterized by inflexible and long-standing patterns of behavior and thinking that deviate from societal expectations. This leads to significant distress and impairment in personal and social functioning.

A cluster of personality disorders that are characterized by dramatic, erratic, and unpredictable behavior. These individuals often have difficulty controlling their impulses and may engage in risky or self-destructive behaviors.

These disorders are marked by odd, eccentric, and withdrawn behavior. Individuals with these disorders may have unusual thought patterns, difficulty forming relationships, and an inability to trust others.

These disorders often involve excessive worry, fear, and anxiety. Individuals struggle with social situations and relationships, fearing judgment and rejection.

A pattern of detachment from social relationships and restricted emotional expression. These individuals are often indifferent to others and lack interest in social activities. They may have difficulty forming and maintaining relationships.

A pattern of pervasive discomfort with close relationships, cognitive or perceptual distortions, and eccentricities of behavior. These individuals may have odd beliefs and magical thinking, and they often have difficulties in social situations.

A personality disorder characterized by detachment from social relationships, emotional coldness, and preference for solitary activities.

A personality disorder characterized by social withdrawal, odd beliefs and perceptions, and restricted emotional expression.

A symptom of Schizoid Personality Disorder, where individuals are indifferent to both praise and criticism.

A symptom of Schizotypal Personality Disorder, where a person might believe that random events or situations are specifically directed towards them.

A symptom of Schizotypal Personality Disorder, where a person experiences unusual thought processes and beliefs.

A symptom of Schizotypal Personality Disorder, where a person experiences brief episodes of psychosis, like hallucinations or delusions.

A symptom of Schizoid Personality Disorder, where individuals experience brief, temporary periods of psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions.

A symptom of Schizoid Personality Disorder, where individuals have difficulty with cognitive functions, such as thinking, learning, and remembering.

A personality disorder characterized by a disregard for the rights of others, manipulative behavior, and a lack of remorse. Individuals with ASPD often engage in reckless and impulsive acts, have a history of criminal behavior, and struggle with empathy.

A personality disorder marked by unstable relationships, intense emotions, impulsivity, and a fear of abandonment. Individuals with BPD often experience mood swings, engage in self-harm, and have difficulty controlling their anger.

A personality disorder where individuals crave attention and validation from others. They often act out dramatically, have a need to be the center of attention, and have shallow relationships.

A personality disorder characterized by excessive self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Individuals with NPD often have a grandiose sense of self and believe they are special and unique.

Cluster B personality disorders are characterized by dramatic, erratic, and unpredictable behavior. People with these disorders often have difficulty controlling their impulses and may engage in risky or self-destructive behaviors.

A pattern of unstable or impulsive behaviors in areas like eating, sex, or spending. Individuals with this disorder may have difficulty maintaining relationships and often experience intense emotions.

Individuals with ASPD often engage in criminal behaviors. These behaviors can include lying, stealing, and violence. They may also have a history of substance abuse and difficulty holding down a job.

Conduct Disorder is a disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of violating the rights of others, similar to ASPD, but occurring before the age of 18. Individuals with this disorder often engage in behaviors such as lying, stealing, vandalizing property, and bullying others.

A personality disorder characterized by a pervasive need for orderliness, perfectionism, and control, often leading to distress and dysfunction.

A personality disorder characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a deep need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.

A personality disorder marked by intense social anxiety, fear of rejection, and feelings of inadequacy. Individuals with this disorder avoid social situations and interactions due to their overwhelming fear of negative judgment.

These are inflexible and enduring patterns of behavior and thinking that significantly differ from societal expectations. They cause significant distress and impairment in personal and social functioning.

Ethan, a CEO who experiences conflict with colleagues and personal relationships due to his inflated sense of self-importance and lack of empathy.

Maya, a college student who struggles with intense social anxiety and fear of rejection, leading her to avoid social interactions.

Characterized by a significant fear of social situations due to an overwhelming fear of being disliked, embarrassed, or rejected.

Difficulty in decision-making, very low self-esteem, seeks excessive advice and reassurance, difficulty in expressing disagreement, fear of having to take care of self, excessive lengths to obtain nurturance, and feels uncomfortable when alone.

Characterized by an excessive need to be taken care of, a fear of separation, and dependent and submissive behaviors in relationships.

Experiences extreme perfectionism and difficulty completing tasks because they never meet their high standards.