Personality Disorder
Overview
A personality disorder is a type of mental disorder characterized by enduring maladaptive patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience, exhibited across many contexts and deviating from those accepted by the individual's culture. These patterns develop early, are inflexible, and are associated with significant distress or disability.
Classification
Personality disorders are classified into three clusters based on similar characteristics and symptoms. These clusters are:
- Cluster A (Odd, eccentric cluster): This includes Paranoid, Schizoid, and Schizotypal Personality Disorders.
- Cluster B (Dramatic, emotional, erratic cluster): This includes Antisocial, Borderline, Histrionic, and Narcissistic Personality Disorders.
- Cluster C (Anxious, fearful cluster): This includes Avoidant, Dependent, and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorders.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a personality disorder is made by a professional mental health clinician based on an extensive psychiatric interview that may include talking with a person's previous clinicians, review of prior records, a medical evaluation, and when appropriate, interviews with friends and family. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) provide the standard language and criteria for the classification of mental disorders.
Treatment
Treatment for personality disorders typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and self-care. Psychotherapeutic treatments may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, schema-focused therapy, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. Medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics, may be used to help manage specific symptoms or co-occurring problems.
Prognosis
The prognosis for individuals with personality disorders varies and is contingent upon various factors including the specific type of disorder, the individual's willingness to seek treatment, the severity of the disorder, and the individual's life circumstances. With appropriate treatment and self-care, many individuals with personality disorders can lead fulfilling lives.