Introduction
Personality disorders are a group of psychological conditions that affect an individual’s behavior, thoughts, and emotions. The 16 personality disorders are classified into three clusters, A, B, and C, based on their common characteristics. Cluster A personality disorders are characterized by odd or eccentric behavior, Cluster B personality disorders are characterized by dramatic, erratic, or unpredictable behavior, and Cluster C personality disorders are characterized by anxious, fearful behavior.
Cluster A Personality Disorders
Paranoid Personality Disorder is characterized by a general distrust and suspicion of others. Individuals with this disorder often misinterpret the actions and intentions of others as malicious, and may be quick to blame others for their own misfortunes.
Schizoid Personality Disorder is characterized by a lack of interest in social relationships, a restricted range of emotional expression, and a tendency to be detached and solitary. People with this disorder may have difficulty expressing emotions, and may not respond when others try to engage with them.
Schizotypal Personality Disorder is characterized by odd behavior and thinking, such as eccentric dress, difficulty maintaining relationships, and unusual beliefs. People with this disorder may have difficulty relating to others, and may be prone to magical thinking.
Cluster B Personality Disorders
Antisocial Personality Disorder is characterized by a disregard for the rights of others and a disregard for social norms. People with this disorder may be violent, manipulative, and deceitful, and often have difficulty forming meaningful relationships.
Borderline Personality Disorder is characterized by instability in relationships, mood, and self-image. People with this disorder may have intense and unpredictable emotions, and may be prone to self-harming behavior.
Histrionic Personality Disorder is characterized by an exaggerated display of emotions, attention-seeking behavior, and a tendency to be overly dramatic. People with this disorder may be overly concerned with their physical appearance, and may be easily influenced by others.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder is characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. People with this disorder may be preoccupied with their own success, and may exploit others to achieve their own goals.
Cluster C Personality Disorders
Avoidant Personality Disorder is characterized by a fear of rejection and a tendency to be overly sensitive to criticism. People with this disorder may be socially anxious and avoid social situations due to a fear of being judged or rejected.
Dependent Personality Disorder is characterized by an excessive need to be taken care of and an inability to make decisions or take responsibility. People with this disorder may be overly dependent on others, and may be willing to do anything to please them.
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder is characterized by an extreme need for order and control. People with this disorder may be rigid and inflexible in their thinking, and may be overly preoccupied with details and rules.
Passive-Aggressive Personality Disorder is characterized by a tendency to express hostility indirectly, through passive resistance or passive-aggressive behavior. People with this disorder may be hostile and resentful, but may not express it openly.
