{"id":4156,"date":"2024-08-13T17:54:00","date_gmt":"2024-08-13T17:54:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/?p=4156"},"modified":"2026-01-08T11:57:20","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T19:57:20","slug":"understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals","title":{"rendered":"Understanding Personality Disorders: A helpful guide for health professionals"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">In This Article<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Understanding_Personality_Disorders\" >Understanding Personality Disorders&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Types_of_Personality_Disorders\" >Types of Personality Disorders&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Cluster_A_Personality_Disorders\" >Cluster A Personality Disorders<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Cluster_B_Personality_Disorders\" >Cluster B Personality Disorders<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Cluster_C_Personality_Disorders\" >Cluster C Personality Disorders<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Causes_and_Risk_Factors\" >Causes and Risk Factors &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Diagnosis_and_Assessment\" >Diagnosis and Assessment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Treatment_Approaches\" >Treatment Approaches &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Strategies_for_Treating_Patients_with_Personality_Disorders\" >Strategies for Treating Patients with Personality Disorders<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion &nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#Key_Takeaways\" >Key Takeaways<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/understanding-personality-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\/#References\" >References<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our <strong>personalities <\/strong>are an integral part of who we are. They impact how we <strong>interact with others<\/strong>, our <strong>moods and behaviors<\/strong>, and how we respond to everyday events and crises. At some point, you&#8217;ve probably taken a quiz to learn more about your personality and how it shapes you. However, it&#8217;s likely that\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Personality_disorders:_Pathology_review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">personality\u00a0disorders<\/a><strong> <\/strong>weren&#8217;t included in the results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the <strong>Diagnostic Statistical Manual on Mental Disorders (DSM), a personality disorder<\/strong> is defined as &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/personality-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">an enduring pattern of inner experience and behavior that <strong>deviates markedly<\/strong> from the expectations of the individual&#8217;s culture<\/a>.&#8221; <strong>Personality disorders lead to impairment<\/strong> and frequent difficulties for those who have them. These disorders tend to affect\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders\/what-are-personality-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>two or more of the following areas<\/strong>:<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Self-perception and perception of others\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emotional responses to others\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Approach to engaging with others\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ability to regulate behavior\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are <strong>ten types of personality disorders<\/strong> organized into <strong>three clusters: Cluster A, Cluster B, <\/strong>and <strong>Cluster C.<\/strong> Recognizing <strong>personality disorder symptoms <\/strong>is crucial for health professionals because patients\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556058\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">do not usually present with concerns about these symptoms<\/a>. Their worries center around difficulty excelling at work, <strong>depression, poor academic performance, and issues with interpersonal relationships.<\/strong> These concerns are typically <strong>consequences <\/strong>of the underlying personality disorder due to their\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556058\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">maladaptive, inflexible, and persistent nature<\/a>. Patients view their behavior patterns as ego-syntonic, meaning they align with their values and self-image, which may cause difficulty accepting treatment. Clinicians often have difficulty diagnosing personality disorders due to the overlapping presentation with other\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556058\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mental health disorders<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep reading to gain more insight and confidence about managing personality disorders in your clinical practice!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"understanding-personality-disorders\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Personality_Disorders\"><\/span>Understanding Personality Disorders&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let&#8217;s begin understanding personality disorders by learning which ones fall under each Cluster.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Starting with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Cluster_A_personality_disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cluster A<\/a>, this group includes Paranoid, Schizoid, and Schizotypal personality disorders. Patients with <strong>Cluster A personality disorders<\/strong> tend to be perceived as <strong>strange or eccentric by others<\/strong> and often have a <strong>lack of interest or distrust<\/strong> of those around them. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556058\/#:~:text=The%20World%20Health%20Organization%20has,%2C%20and%202.7%25%2C%20respectively.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>3.6% of people worldwide<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0have a Cluster A personality disorder.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Cluster_B_personality_disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cluster B<\/a>\u00a0personality disorders<\/strong> are <strong>characterized by<\/strong> <strong>dramatic, impulsive, <\/strong>and <strong>emotional behaviors.<\/strong> This Cluster includes <strong>Antisocial, Borderline, Histrionic, and Narcissistic<\/strong> personality disorders with<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556058\/#:~:text=The%20World%20Health%20Organization%20has,%2C%20and%202.7%25%2C%20respectively.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a0an international <\/a><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556058\/#:~:text=The%20World%20Health%20Organization%20has,%2C%20and%202.7%25%2C%20respectively.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">prevalence of 1.5%<\/a>.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lastly, there are\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Cluster_C_personality_disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cluster C\u00a0<\/a>personality disorders, which include <strong>Avoidant, Dependent, <\/strong>and <strong>Obsessive-compulsive<\/strong> personality disorders. Patients with these disorders tend to be <strong>very fearful <\/strong>and <strong>anxious<\/strong>. About\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556058\/#:~:text=The%20World%20Health%20Organization%20has,%2C%20and%202.7%25%2C%20respectively.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>2.7% of the population worldwide<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0fall under this cluster. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before learning more about each personality disorder, let&#8217;s dispel some common misconceptions. One myth is that evidence of a personality disorder <strong>must be present from an early age.<\/strong> These disorders typically develop around the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders\/what-are-personality-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>late adolescent years or early adulthood<\/strong><\/a>, but they can also present later in life following an overwhelming life event.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/irishpsychiatry.ie\/blog\/addressing-6-myths-about-personality-disorders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Another misconception<\/a>\u00a0is that patients with personality disorders are <strong>inherently manipulative. <\/strong>Manipulative behavior is not a feature of all personality disorders. For patients who exhibit those characteristics, it isn&#8217;t a conscious behavior. Instead, it&#8217;s often a response to a <strong>lack of safety <\/strong>and <strong>control<\/strong> as a child and an attempt to gain control now. Also,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/irishpsychiatry.ie\/blog\/addressing-6-myths-about-personality-disorders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">many people believe that <\/a><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/irishpsychiatry.ie\/blog\/addressing-6-myths-about-personality-disorders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">personality disorders are untreatable<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>when, in fact, <strong>various psychotherapy techniques<\/strong> are helpful in the treatment process. You&#8217;ll learn more about these options as you progress through this guide!\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"types-of-personality-disorders\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_of_Personality_Disorders\"><\/span>Types of Personality Disorders&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, let&#8217;s take a closer look at each disorder, discuss <strong>key features<\/strong>, and <strong>understand the diagnostic criteria<\/strong> for personality disorders.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"687\" height=\"990\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-looking-anxious.png\" alt=\"Woman looking afraid and suspicious of her surroundings.\" class=\"wp-image-4161\" style=\"width:323px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-looking-anxious.png 687w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-looking-anxious.png?resize=208,300 208w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 687px) 100vw, 687px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cluster-a-personality-disorders\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cluster_A_Personality_Disorders\"><\/span>Cluster A Personality Disorders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2023\/06\/28\/usmle-step-1-question-of-the-day-personality-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Paranoid personality disorder<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is characterized by a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/paranoid-personality-disorder-ppd#Diagnosis_v25246480\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">widespread distrust and suspicion of others<\/a>. Patients also believe that the intentions of others are malicious and harmful. Patients with this disorder may also have\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/mental-health-disorders\/personality-disorders\/paranoid-personality-disorder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">one or more additional diagnoses<\/a>, such as\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Post-traumatic_stress_disorder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">post-traumatic stress disorder<\/a>\u00a0(PTSD),\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2024\/05\/27\/understanding-anxiety-disorders-a-helpful-guide-for-health-professionals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">anxiety disorder<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2023\/03\/01\/usmle-step-1-question-of-the-day-schizophrenia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a0schizophrenia<\/a>, or another personality disorder. In terms of diagnosis, patients must present with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/paranoid-personality-disorder-ppd#Diagnosis_v25246480\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">four or more of the following<\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Suspicion of others without evidence that they are being deceived or exploited&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Constant worry about the loyalty and trustworthiness of friends\/acquaintances&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reluctance to share personal details&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Misinterpreting unassuming statements as belittling or threatening&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Holding on to grudges&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perception of attacks on character that are not apparent to others, with a readiness to counterattack or react angrily&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Constant and unjustified suspicions that their partner or spouse is unfaithful &nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next, let&#8217;s discuss Schizoid personality disorder. Remember not to confuse this with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/notes\/Schizophrenia_and_psychotic_disoders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">schizophrenia<\/a>, although the names sound similar. Those with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/23030-schizoid-personality-disorder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Schizoid personality disorder<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0have a limited range of emotions, prefer to be alone, and have no desire for close interpersonal relationships. While this may sound lonely, these patients have a lifelong pattern of reclusion. Diagnostically, patients must present with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/mental-health-disorders\/personality-disorders\/schizoid-personality-disorder#Diagnosis_v36027456\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">four or more of the following<\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>No enjoyment or desire for close relationships \u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Preference for solitary activities\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Little, if any, interest at all in sexual activities\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Enjoy a small number of activities, if any at all\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Few close friends, if any at all\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indifferent to praise or criticism\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emotionally cold, detached, with limited emotional responses\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On to\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/notes\/Personality_disoders_-_Cluster_A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Schizotypal personality disorder<\/a>.<\/strong> Those with this personality disorder are described as <strong>behaving oddly,<\/strong> <strong>dressing in an eccentric fashion,<\/strong> and <strong>unusual thinking.<\/strong> These characteristics lead to difficulties in maintaining relationships.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/schizotypal-personality-disorder-stpd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Approximately one-half of patients with Schizotypal personality disorder<\/a>\u00a0also have had one or more episodes of<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Major_depressive_disorder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a0major depressive disorder<\/a>\u00a0and often also have\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/notes\/Substance_use_disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">substance use disorder<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Five or more of the following must be present for diagnosis:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>A belief that everyday events have a personal significance \u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Magical thinking such as clairvoyance, telepathy, superstitious beliefs, strange fantasies\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Abnormal perceptual experiences, such as\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/figure\/Examples-of-body-illusions-A-The-Pinocchio-illusion-A-blindfolded-participant_fig1_273970275\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">body illusions<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paranoia or suspiciousness\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inappropriate or restricted expression of emotion \u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strange behavior or appearance\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lack of close friends\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Odd speech or thinking\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Excessive <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/usmle-step-1-question-of-the-day-social-anxiety\">social anxiety<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"419\" height=\"665\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/person-with-mood-swings.png?w=419\" alt=\"A split image of a person with one side chaotic and disorganized and the other happy and calm.\" class=\"wp-image-3877\" style=\"width:233px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/person-with-mood-swings.png 419w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/person-with-mood-swings.png?resize=189,300 189w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 419px) 100vw, 419px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"bluster-b-personality-disorders\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cluster_B_Personality_Disorders\"><\/span>Cluster B Personality Disorders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you use the word antisocial, you may use it to describe someone who has little desire to interact with others and tends to keep to themselves.\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/notes\/Personality_disorders_-_Cluster_B\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Antisocial personality disorder<\/a>,<\/strong> however, is something completely different. These patients constantly <strong>break rules<\/strong> and <strong>exploit others <\/strong>to meet their needs, with a <strong>lack of remorse <\/strong>or <strong>empathy<\/strong>. They appear charming to most despite their behavior.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/antisocial-personality-disorder-aspd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Co-existing conditions<\/a>\u00a0include<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Mood_disorders:_Clinical_practice\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a0<strong>mood disorders<\/strong><\/a>, substance use disorder, anxiety disorder, or a different personality disorder. Before age 15, these patients must be diagnosed with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.yalemedicine.org\/conditions\/conduct-disorder#:~:text=Conduct%20disorder%20is%20a%20mental,often%20before%20their%20teenage%20years.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>conduct disorder<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0to meet the criteria for an Antisocial personality disorder diagnosis. The other\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/antisocial-personality-disorder-aspd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">diagnostic criteria<\/a>\u00a0include:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Disregard for social norms by committing unlawful acts\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Constant lying, manipulation, and deceit for personal benefit\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Impulsivity and a lack of planning for the future\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Displays of aggression\/irritability, leading to physical altercations or constant conflicts\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Recklessness and a disregard for the safety of themselves or others\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lack of remorse\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inability to maintain employment and uphold financial obligations\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Impulsivity, mood swings, repeated episodes of self-harm,<\/strong> or <strong>suicide attempts <\/strong>are key features of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/about-mental-illness\/mental-health-conditions\/borderline-personality-disorder\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Borderline personality disorder<\/a>. Patients with this disorder have a <strong>strong fear of abandonment <\/strong>and <strong>form intense attachments<\/strong> to others that fall apart due to minor conflicts. Unfortunately, they often have a <strong>history of childhood sexual, physical, <\/strong>or <strong>emotional abuse.<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/about-mental-illness\/mental-health-conditions\/borderline-personality-disorder\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Five or more of the following symptoms<\/a>\u00a0must be present for diagnosis:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Panicked efforts to avoid perceived or actual abandonment\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Volatile relationships (extreme love-hate relationships)\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unstable self-image\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Impulsive behavior in at least two potentially harmful ways, such as substance use, binge eating, sexual activity, etc.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Recurring suicidal threats or attempts, self-harm\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unstable mood\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pervasive feelings of emptiness\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Challenges controlling anger\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Paranoid ideas or dissociative symptoms related to stress \u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK542325\/#:~:text=Introduction,late%20adolescence%20or%20early%20adulthood.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Histrionic personality disorder<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>involves <strong>attention-seeking behavior, a dramatic, flirtatious nature, <\/strong>and <strong>excessive emotionality.<\/strong> These patients also tend to present more frequently with <strong>depression<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Five or more of the following must be present for diagnosis:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Discomfort when they aren&#8217;t the center of attention\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inappropriate seductive or provocative behavior\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use of physical appearance to garner attention\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shallow expression of emotion that rapidly shift\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Theatrical level of emotional expression\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Easily swayed by others\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Overestimates the level of intimacy in relationships\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The last Cluster B disorder to cover is\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556001\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Narcissistic personality disorder<\/a>. <\/strong>Patients have a <strong>lack of empathy, a need for admiration, grandiosity, <\/strong>and <strong>fragile self-esteem<\/strong>. Narcissistic patients often develop <strong>depression <\/strong>when they do not receive their <strong>desired level of recognition<\/strong> from others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For diagnosis, five or more of these symptoms must be present:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>An exaggerated sense of importance\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Preoccupation with fantasies about power, beauty, success, money, etc.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A belief that they are special and only other high-status individuals can understand them\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Need for excessive admiration\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sense of entitlement\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Take advantage of others for self-benefit\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lack of empathy\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Envious of others or belief that others are envious of them\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Arrogant or haughty \u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"858\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/male-ignoring-other-people.png?w=1024\" alt=\"A person stands apart from a group of people. The person has their arms crossed and looks hurt and upset.\" class=\"wp-image-4160\" style=\"width:341px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/male-ignoring-other-people.png 1098w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/male-ignoring-other-people.png?resize=300,251 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/male-ignoring-other-people.png?resize=768,643 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/male-ignoring-other-people.png?resize=1024,858 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cluster-c-personality-disorders\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cluster_C_Personality_Disorders\"><\/span>Cluster C Personality Disorders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let&#8217;s begin with <strong>Avoidant personality disorder,<\/strong> which is classified by an<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559325\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a0<\/a><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559325\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">overwhelming fear of rejection and intense sensitivity<\/a>,<\/strong> causing patients to <strong>withdraw socially<\/strong> and <strong>avoid situations where someone may reject them.<\/strong> Unlike patients with Schizoid personality disorder, these patients desire companionship but are easily hurt and shy. There is also a higher incidence of <strong>anxiety <\/strong>and <strong>depressive disorders<\/strong> in these patients. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At least four of the following must be present for diagnosis:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Will not interact with others unless they believe they are liked\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cautious of interpersonal relationships\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoid jobs that require interpersonal interactions due to fear of critique\/rejection\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Worry about being criticized\/rejected in social situations\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Feel inadequate in new social environments, tend to be inhibited\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Believe they are inferior\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reluctant to try new activities due to fear of embarrassment\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/9783-dependent-personality-disorder#symptoms-and-causes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dependent personality disorder<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>has a pattern of <strong>low self-confidence, fear of separation, clinginess, <\/strong>and an <strong>extreme need to be taken care of.<\/strong> These patients are more likely to <strong>stay in physically, emotionally, and\/or sexually abusive relationships<\/strong> because they do not want to be alone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In terms of diagnostic criteria, five or more of the following must be present:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Difficulty with decision-making without external reassurance \u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Need for others to take responsibility for most areas of their lives\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoidance of disagreements or conflicts due to fear of losing approval\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty starting projects due to low self-confidence\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sense of helplessness when alone\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Seeks new relationship rapidly after one ends\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fear of being left alone to care for themselves\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Go to great lengths to receive support from others\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We&#8217;ve officially reached the last personality disorder,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/obsessive-compulsive-personality-disorder-ocpd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder<\/strong><\/a>! \u00a0Key characteristics include <strong>perfectionism, orderliness, and control. Inflexibility <\/strong>is also important to note in these patients. Though they often <strong>thrive professionally,<\/strong> their <strong>relationships with others suffer<\/strong>. Remember, this is not the same as\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/learn\/Obsessive-compulsive_disorder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>obsessive-compulsive disorder<\/strong><\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For diagnosis, four of the following traits must be present:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Preoccupation with schedules, lists, rules, and organization\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Perfectionism interferes with completing tasks\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Excessive devotion to work\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rigidity\/stubbornness\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lack of flexibility regarding ethical\/moral issues, values\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Refuse to delegate work unless people agree to do it their way\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Refusal to throw out worthless objects\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Miserly spending habits for themselves and others\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"99\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/understanding-personality-disorders-2.png\" alt=\"A set of genes.\" class=\"wp-image-4159\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/understanding-personality-disorders-2.png 842w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/understanding-personality-disorders-2.png?resize=300,35 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/understanding-personality-disorders-2.png?resize=768,90 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"causes-and-risk-factors\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Causes_and_Risk_Factors\"><\/span>Causes and Risk Factors &nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What are the factors that contribute to the development of personality disorders? <\/strong>Currently, researchers have found a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/9636-personality-disorders-overview#symptoms-and-causes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>malfunctioning gene<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0linked to the development of Obsessive-compulsive Personality Disorder. They&#8217;re researching the <strong>genetic link<\/strong> between traits such as <strong>fear, aggression, anxiety,<\/strong> and the development of personality disorders. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Impactful <strong>childhood <\/strong>experiences, <strong>trauma, and verbal, physical, <\/strong>or <strong>sexual abuse<\/strong> are associated with a higher risk of developing certain disorders. For example, patients who experienced <strong>sexual abuse<\/strong> as children are\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/9636-personality-disorders-overview#symptoms-and-causes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">more likely to develop Borderline or Antisocial personality disorders<\/a>. In comparison, those who experienced verbal abuse are more likely to develop Borderline, Narcissistic, Paranoid, or Obsessive-compulsive disorders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Environmental factors, such as a <strong>dysfunctional household, neglect, <\/strong>or a <strong>lack of constructive criticism,<\/strong> are linked to the development of personality disorders.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"diagnosis-and-assessment\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diagnosis_and_Assessment\"><\/span>Diagnosis and Assessment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When diagnosing personality disorders,\u00a0a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aafp.org\/pubs\/afp\/issues\/2004\/1015\/p1505.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>comprehensive approach<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is essential. Evaluation should include a thorough <strong>clinical history, psychiatric history, physical exam, <\/strong>and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/clerkship-tips-how-to-administer-a-mental-status-examination\">mental status exam<\/a>. <\/strong>It&#8217;s also important to review each patient&#8217;s <strong>work, educational, legal, <\/strong>and <strong>relationship<\/strong> history. These are generally areas where patients present with a <strong>long-term pattern of impairment.<\/strong> The diagnostic criteria we covered previously are also essential to making an accurate diagnosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember, these disorders are <strong>ego-syntonic<\/strong>, so patients have <strong>difficulty realizing<\/strong> they have a <strong>pattern of maladaptive behaviors,<\/strong> which can make diagnosis and treatment challenging.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"753\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-speaking-to-therapist.png?w=1024\" alt=\"A therapist speaking to a patient during a therapy session.\" class=\"wp-image-4158\" style=\"width:330px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-speaking-to-therapist.png 2632w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-speaking-to-therapist.png?resize=300,221 300w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-speaking-to-therapist.png?resize=768,565 768w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-speaking-to-therapist.png?resize=1024,753 1024w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-speaking-to-therapist.png?resize=1536,1130 1536w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/09\/woman-speaking-to-therapist.png?resize=2048,1506 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"treatment-approaches\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Treatment_Approaches\"><\/span>Treatment Approaches &nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders\/what-are-personality-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Psychotherapy<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is the primary treatment modality for personality disorders. Depending on the diagnosis, there are different types to employ, such as:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/22838-dialectical-behavior-therapy-dbt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dialectical behavior therapy<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK592398\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Psychoanalytic\/psychodynamic-focused therapy<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apa.org\/ptsd-guideline\/patients-and-families\/cognitive-behavioral\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cognitive behavioral therapy<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK549812\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Group therapy<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Teaching patients and their families about the diagnosis, treatment options for personality disorders, and coping strategies<\/strong> is also beneficial. If patients present with comorbid conditions, consider adding medications such as <strong>antidepressants, mood stabilizers, <\/strong>and <strong>anti-anxiety medications<\/strong>. Other ways to manage symptoms include <strong>exercise, avoiding alcohol and drugs, joining a support group, journaling, <\/strong>and\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2021\/01\/18\/5-mindfulness-tips-to-find-balance-in-2021\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mindfulness techniques<\/a>.<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"strategies-for-treating-patients-with-personality-disorders\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Strategies_for_Treating_Patients_with_Personality_Disorders\"><\/span>Strategies for Treating Patients with Personality Disorders<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s important to remain <strong>empathetic <\/strong>and <strong>understanding<\/strong> when working with patients with personality disorders. These patients\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/journals.sagepub.com\/doi\/10.1177\/0025802419880782\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">can evoke negative feelings<\/a>\u00a0from providers, such as anxiety, anger, hopelessness, and more. Awareness and acknowledgment of these feelings and addressing <strong>countertransference <\/strong>can lead to a <strong>better\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/2020\/02\/25\/approaching-patient-encounters-with-compassion\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">doctor-patient relationship<\/a><\/strong>. Lastly, <strong>collaboration with a multidisciplinary team<\/strong> is a great way to ensure comprehensive care.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conclusion\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion &nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We covered a wide variety of personality disorders, so here are a few key takeaways: &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Personality disorders fall into three clusters. Each has distinct diagnostic criteria,<\/strong> and <strong>psychotherapy is helpful.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Patients with personality disorders have <strong>struggle with maintaining interpersonal relationships.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>As a clinician, you should lead with <strong>empathy and compassion<\/strong> when building a clinician-patient relationship. \u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Making time to <strong>continue learning about personality disorders<\/strong> will help you <strong>accurately diagnose<\/strong> an often overlooked disorder. \u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>These patients need our support.<\/strong> By reading this guide and checking out the <a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1002\/cpp.2947\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">latest research on personality disorders<\/a>, we can all continue to promote awareness for these individuals and provide optimal care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways\"><\/span>Key Takeaways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Personality disorders involve enduring, maladaptive behavior patterns.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Three clusters categorize different types with distinct features.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Diagnosis requires thorough history, exam, and assessment.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Psychotherapy is primary treatment; medication may assist symptoms.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Empathy and collaboration improve care for these patients.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"References\"><\/span>References<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/personality-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/personality-disorders<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders\/what-are-personality-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders\/what-are-personality-disorders<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/31298170\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/31298170\/<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556058\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556058\/<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ganti, Latha; Kaufman, Matthew S.; and Blitzstein, Sean M.&nbsp;<em>First Aid for the Psychiatry Clerkship, Fifth Edition.&nbsp;<\/em>New York: McGraw-Hill Education, 2018&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/personality-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/personality-disorders<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/paranoid-personality-disorder-ppd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/paranoid-personality-disorder-ppd<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/23030-schizoid-personality-disorder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/23030-schizoid-personality-disorder<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/mental-health-disorders\/personality-disorders\/schizoid-personality-disorder#Diagnosis_v36027456\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/home\/mental-health-disorders\/personality-disorders\/schizoid-personality-disorder#Diagnosis_v36027456<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/schizotypal-personality-disorder-stpd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/schizotypal-personality-disorder-stpd<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/figure\/Examples-of-body-illusions-A-The-Pinocchio-illusion-A-blindfolded-participant_fig1_273970275\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/figure\/Examples-of-body-illusions-A-The-Pinocchio-illusion-A-blindfolded-participant_fig1_273970275<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.yalemedicine.org\/conditions\/conduct-disorder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.yalemedicine.org\/conditions\/conduct-disorder<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/antisocial-personality-disorder-aspd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/antisocial-personality-disorder-aspd<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/about-mental-illness\/mental-health-conditions\/borderline-personality-disorder\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.nami.org\/about-mental-illness\/mental-health-conditions\/borderline-personality-disorder\/<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK542325\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK542325\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556001\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK556001\/<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559325\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559325\/<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/9783-dependent-personality-disorder#symptoms-and-causes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/9783-dependent-personality-disorder#symptoms-and-causes<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/obsessive-compulsive-personality-disorder-ocpd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/psychiatric-disorders\/personality-disorders\/obsessive-compulsive-personality-disorder-ocpd<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aafp.org\/pubs\/afp\/issues\/2004\/1015\/p1505.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.aafp.org\/pubs\/afp\/issues\/2004\/1015\/p1505.html<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders\/what-are-personality-disorders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders\/what-are-personality-disorders<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/22838-dialectical-behavior-therapy-dbt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/treatments\/22838-dialectical-behavior-therapy-dbt<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK592398\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK592398\/&nbsp;<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK549812\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK549812\/<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/journals.sagepub.com\/doi\/10.1177\/0025802419880782\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/journals.sagepub.com\/doi\/10.1177\/0025802419880782<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1002\/cpp.2947\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/10.1002\/cpp.2947<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/create\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/09\/Blog_Display_Ads_MD1_2023.png?w=700\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5904\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/09\/Blog_Display_Ads_MD1_2023.png 700w, https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/09\/Blog_Display_Ads_MD1_2023.png?resize=300,107 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Try Osmosis today! Access your&nbsp;<em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.osmosis.org\/login?type=create\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">free trial<\/a><\/em>&nbsp;and discover why millions of current and future clinicians and caregivers love learning with us.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Explore key features and challenges of personality disorders, including diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies, to enhance clinical understanding and patient care.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":175,"featured_media":4157,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[27,10,867,28,30,16,37,32],"tags":[1110,1115,1108,1114,1109,458,1113,1111,1107,1112],"class_list":["post-4156","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-medicine","category-clinical-skills","category-lpn","category-mental-health","category-np","category-do","category-pa","category-nursing","tag-borderline-personality-disorder","tag-clinical-guide","tag-cluster-a","tag-cluster-b","tag-cluster-c","tag-mental-health","tag-narcissistic-personality-disorder","tag-paranoid-personality-disorder","tag-personality-disorders","tag-psychotherapy"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.6 - 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