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What are personality disorder clusters? -

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM-5, outlines 10 distinct personality disorders, each belonging to one of three groups, or 'clusters.'

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Cluster C -

While Cluster A and Cluster B contain disorders such as paranoid personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorders respectively, Cluster C is known as the anxious and fearful cluster.

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Avoidant personality disorder -

Few people like criticism, but those suffering from avoidant personality disorder will be dogged by a hypersensitivity to negative comments and perceived rejection.

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Avoidant personality disorder symptoms -

More than being simply 'shyness,' avoidant personality disorder is characterized by crippling feelings of social inhibition and inadequacy. People with avoidant personality disorder are terrified of being ridiculed, rejected, or criticized, and will often try to avoid situations where they feel this might happen.

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Avoidant personality disorder diagnosis -

The disorder is thought to affect around 1% of the population, and a diagnosis can only be made in adulthood (shyness, nervousness around strangers, and sensitivity to criticism are often par for the course in childhood and adolescence). When the feelings extend into adulthood, it might be symptomatic of avoidant personality disorder.

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Feelings of inferiority -

Those with avoidant personality usually view themselves as inept and inferior to others, and the disorder can lead to difficulty in forming social connections and embarking on new friendships or relationships.

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Reluctance to take risks -

People with avoidant personality disorder are unusually reluctant to take risks in their professional or personal life, as they fear this would open them up to ridicule and embarrassment.

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Causes and treatment of avoidant personality disorder -

The exact cause of the disorder is unknown, but experts believe that both genetics and environment play a role. Early experiences of being rejected by parents or peers may be a determining factor for those susceptible to the disorder. Psychotherapy, medication therapy, or a combination of the two are the usual treatments.

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Dependent personality disorder -

Dependent personality disorder is characterized by the need to be taken care of by others. People with the disorder will often be 'clingy' in relationships, and have an intense fear of being left to fend for themselves.

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Dependent personality disorder symptoms -

People with dependent personality disorder will typically invest a huge amount of energy in trying to please others, and will experience an overwhelming sense of devastation when a relationship ends.

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Dependent personality disorder risks -

The disorder can put people at risk of abuse and manipulation, as they are often prepared to put up with poor treatment rather than lose a partner or friend. People with the disorder will often avoid disagreeing with others for fear of losing approval.

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Lack of decision-making skills -

People with this disorder will often lack decision-making skills. The may avoid 'adult' responsibilities, leaving partners or family members to make major life decisions for them.

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Dislike of solitude -

People with the disorder will typically have difficulty being alone, and may have a tendency to be naïve and to fantasize about life and relationships.

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Low self-confidence -

People with the disorder will usually have cripplingly low self-confidence, and will often be unable to start projects due to a lack of belief in their own abilities.

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Reassurance from others -

Somebody with the disorder may find it hard to make 'simple' daily decisions, such as what to wear, without reassurance from others.

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Causes of dependent personality disorder -

A mix of genetics and environment are thought to impact the likelihood of developing dependent personality disorder. Verbal or physical abuse in childhood, very authoritarian upbringings, and even severe illness in childhood could increase the chances of developing the disorder.

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Treatment of dependent personality disorder -

After diagnosis from a mental health specialist, the disorder will usually be treated through cognitive behavioral therapy, or another form of psychotherapy. If the disorder causes anxiety or depression, medication might also be prescribed for treatment.

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Obsessive compulsive personality disorder -

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder is a condition characterized by an obsession with rules, being extremely organized, and a desire to feel in control.

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Differences from OCD -

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) shares some traits with the more commonly-known obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The main difference is that while OCD sufferers may have unwanted thoughts, people with OCPD will believe those thoughts are correct.

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Rules and list-making -

People with OCPD will typically be obsessed with rules and list-making, and feel a need to adhere rigidly to the tiniest details.

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Lack of affection -

People with OCPD may withdraw emotionally when they feel they are unable to control a situation.

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Perfectionism -

A person with OCPD will have perfectionist tendencies that usually become evident by early adulthood. They may be unwilling to let other people do things for them. Other symptoms can be a lack of flexibility and of generosity.

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Over-devotion to work -

People with OCPD hold themselves and everybody else to high standards. They tend to be workaholics, but are often unable to complete tasks because they get hung up on tiny details, and are unable to see the bigger picture.

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Inability to delegate -

People with OCPD tend to be high achievers, but are often unwilling to delegate tasks in the workplace, and can become very upset if somebody interrupts their routine.

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Anxiety and frustration -

People with OCPD often have difficulty expressing their emotions, and tend to feel anxiety and frustration if things don't go exactly as planned.

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Controlling behavior -

People with the condition can often be perceived as stubborn and controlling, and rigid in their approach to all aspects of their lives.

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Money matters -

People with OCPD will typically see money as another area to be strictly controlled, and may be 'miserly' with themselves and others. Any unplanned spending can be a major cause of anxiety.

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Causes and treatment of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder -

Although it can affect men and women, OCPD is more common in men. It has a tendency to occur in families, so it may be partly genetic, although upbringing and home environment may also have a role to play. Treatment will usually be through talk therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Medication may also be prescribed to treat the symptoms.

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Diagnosis -

If these symptoms sound like they apply to you or someone you know, it is important to seek advice from a health care provider or mental health professional. Self-diagnosis can only go so far, so speak to the experts!

Sources: (Psychology Today) (Mental Help)

See also: Signs of financial abuse in a relationship

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