Personality Disorder Definition
Personality disorders are a diagnostic category of psychiatric disorders that affect approximately 10% of the population. This group of disorders is characterized by problematic thinking patterns; problems with emotional regulation; and difficulty achieving a balance between spontaneity and impulse control.
Research indicates that personality disorders are correlated with substance use disorders. Associations have been found between borderline personality disorder, alcohol abuse and abuse of sedatives/benzodiazepines. Antisocial personality disorder has also been frequently associated with alcohol abuse and misuse. Read about substance abuse treatment to know your options.
Since everyone has a personality, but not everyone has a personality disorder, these disorders are considered a variant form of normal, healthy personality.
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- However, the most significant and defining feature of personality disorders is the negative effect these disorders have on interpersonal relationships.
- People with personality disorders tend to respond to differing situations and demands with a characteristically rigid constellation of thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
- This inflexibility and difficulty in forming nuanced responses represents the primary difference between healthy and disordered personalities.
Personality Disorder Diagnosis
The diagnosis of personality disorders is often very complex as these disorders frequently co-occur with each other and with other psychiatric categories of disorders. The current diagnostic system of the DSM-5 (APA, 2013) relies upon a categorical approach that outlines the following criteria to meet a personality disorder diagnosis:
The exact cause of personality disorders remains uncertain. However, it is clear there are both biological and psychosocial factors that influence the development of personality and personality disorders.
Not too long ago, personality disorders were thought to be untreatable. There are now several highly effective treatments for personality disorders that derive from the same psychological theories previously reviewed, with pharmacological interventions serving as an important adjunct. These treatments include: In conclusion, recent technological advancements and improvements to diagnostic methodologies have enabled researchers to study personality and personality disorders as never before. Therefore, we can state with confidence there is hope and relief for people affected by these disorders, including their family members and loved ones.
Personality Disorder Causes
Several psychological theories of personality disorders attempt to explain the psychosocial origins of personality disorders. The following psychological theories of personality disorders were reviewed:
Personality Disorder Treatment
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