15.11 Personality Disorders - Psychology 2e | OpenStax

Learning Objectives

Understand the nature of personality disorders and their differences from other disorders.
Identify and distinguish between the three clusters of personality disorders.
Learn the basic features and important factors of borderline personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder.

Personality: Refers to a stable, consistent, and distinctive way of thinking, feeling, acting, and relating to the world.
Personality disorders are marked by a style that is significantly different from cultural expectations, pervasive, inflexible, and typically causes distress or impairment.
Individuals with personality disorders often face difficulties in maintaining social relationships and achieving life goals.

Cluster A (Odd/Eccentric):
- Paranoid Personality Disorder
- Schizoid Personality Disorder
- Schizotypal Personality Disorder
Cluster B (Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic):
- Antisocial Personality Disorder
- Histrionic Personality Disorder
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder
- Borderline Personality Disorder
Cluster C (Anxious/Fearful):
- Avoidant Personality Disorder
- Dependent Personality Disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (not the same as OCD)

Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, mood, and marked impulsivity.
Individuals fear being alone and may make frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment.
Relationships are intense and unstable; sudden shifts in personal attitudes and behaviors are common.
May engage in reckless behaviors like impulsive spending, gambling, substance abuse.
Prevalence is about 1.4% in the U.S. but higher in mental health settings.
Biological Basis: Genetic factors play a significant role; environmental factors (e.g., childhood abuse) also crucial.

Lack of regard for others' rights or feelings, often engaging in illegal acts and deceitful or manipulative behavior.
Characterized by impulsivity, aggression, and lack of remorse.
More common in men and can start showing signs early in life.
Individuals often view others as tools for personal gain and exhibit superficial charm without genuine empathy.
Risk Factors: Genetic and environmental influences; early adverse experiences increase risk.

Men: More likely to engage in physically harmful and illegal behaviors.
Women: More likely to engage in deceitful behaviors and have experienced early abuse or neglect.

Personality disorders involve enduring maladaptive personality styles that cause difficulties for the individual and those around them.
Understanding these disorders, their clusters, and specific features can aid in better diagnosis and treatment.