|
|
“A personality disorder is a method of thinking, feeling and behaving that deviates from the expectations of the culture, causes distress or problems functioning, and lasts over time.” – American Psychiatric Association (APA).
Fortunately, we all possess our own personality. Without it we would be something similar to a robot. Our personality begins developing when we are very young, and formed by a combination of genetics and environment. Our young personality is fully complete by age 5 to 7 – by the time we are about to begin school.
Personalities Can Change
Somewhere along the line, our personality can drift off course, perhaps because of a genetic flaw, a traumatic event or a childhood experience. This can cause a person to have a distorted view of life, himself and others, and impacts the way he responds to other people and controls his emotions. Left untreated, a person with a personality disorder can become used to their negative behaviors and thought patterns, and may think nothing is wrong.
Extreme Traits
Maladaptive behaviors can begin at an early age and are a part of everyday life. Your child might go through temper tantrums and you might see friends or co-workers exhibiting the same extreme traits.
Some individuals are particularly prone to personality disorders. Especially people with mood and anxiety disorders, developmental delays, a history of anger, and a poor family structure. In children, maladaptive behavior is usually called a tantrum, but can also be termed “meltdowns.” In adults, these behaviors are usually called disruptive or inappropriate behavior. Alcohol and Drug Addiction, abuse, and trauma can all cause maladaptive behaviors.
The Three Clusters
Personality disorders are complex, often overlapping and difficult to diagnose. They are categorized using three different clusters:
- Cluster A – characterized as Odd consists of Paranoid Personality Disorder, Schizoid Personality Disorder and Schizotypal Personality Disorder.
- Cluster B – characterized as Dramatic consists of Antisocial Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Histrionic Personality Disorder and Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
- Cluster C – characterized as Anxious consists of Avoidant Personality Disorder, Dependent Personality Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality disorder, not to be confused with Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Multiple Disorders
Many people with one personality disorder often have signs of at least one additional personality disorder. For example, people with a Paranoid Personality Disorder are suspicious, hypersensitive and wary of others. They may also demonstrate Narcissistic tendencies, where they need constant admiration, and are lost in fantasies of power, wealth, brilliance, beauty or love. In addition they may demonstrate a Histrionic Personality Disorder, needing attention by dramatizing their emotions and actions.
This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you toward improving your life.
Review our Knowledge Base or the links displayed on this page for similar and related topics.