Our personality is influenced by our experiences, our environmental surroundings, and our inherited characteristics. Every personality is unique in its own way. A personality disorder, in a related sense, is “a way of thinking, feeling, and behaving that deviates from the expectations of the culture, causes distress or problems functioning, and lasts over time.”
Personality disorders affect us greatly. They often begin to show during late adolescence and early adulthood. Without treatment, they can be extremely long-lasting and may even get worse over time. People below the age of 18 cannot get diagnosed with a personality disorder as their personalities would still be developing.
- Antisocial Personality Disorder – Such a person often violates and disregards the rights of others. They may not conform to social norms and tend to lie and deceive others.
- Avoidant Personality Disorder – Such a person sees themselves as inadequate and not good enough. They are extremely shy and terrified of being rejected or criticized. As a result, they tend to avoid many social settings.
- Borderline Personality Disorder – This is characterized by intense emotions, impulsivity, and a pattern of instability in personal relationships. They tend to have a strong fear of abandonment and may experience intense anger episodes.
- Dependent Personality Disorder – This person experiences the need to be taken care of and may be very submissive and clingy. They often require a lot of reassurance.
- Histrionic Personality Disorder – This person displays excessive emotions and attention-seeking. They often display exaggerated emotions and love being the center of attention.
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder – This person displays a need for admiration and lacks empathy for others. They tend to take advantage of others and see themselves as superior.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder – This is NOT the same as obsessive-compulsive disorder. A person with OCPD is obsessed with perfection and being in control. They may even be inflexible with things like their morals and values.
- Paranoid Personality Disorder – These people are suspicious of others and often assume that others are out to get them.
- Schizoid Personality Disorder – These people often detach themselves and express little emotions. They like to be alone.
- Schizotypal Personality Disorder – These people have odd beliefs and eccentric behavior. They may also have excessive social anxiety.
Treatment
Different types of treatment are used for different cases and different personality disorders. Psychotherapy tends to be very useful. Medication does not treat a personality disorder but may be very effective in terms of managing symptoms.