Advoidant+Personality+Disorder

Avoidant Personality Disorder

Diagnostic Features This personality disorder is characterized by extreme shyness, having feelings of inadequacy and individuals are very sensitive to rejection. This disorder is only diagnosed if these symptoms are persistent, disabling, distressing and interfere with an individuals life (Long, 2009).

Causes The actual cause of this disorder is unclear, however it is believed to be a combination on genetics, social and biological factors. Also it is believed that it develops from childhood. A child who has a chronic painful parental criticism and rejection can often show symptoms of this personality disorder. They develop a defensive shell from the criticism to be able to avoid it. If the individual is rejected by peers it will add to the pattern of social withdraw (Encyclopedia of Mental Health Disorders, 2010).

Complications The fear of loss and rejection can be so painful that the individual would rather be lonely than risk trying to form a relationship and connect with others. Individuals with this disorder may have very few friends but depend on these friends a great deal. An individuals occupation can also suffer because most occupations require a social attribute to advance in the occupation (Long, 2009).

Comorbidity Mood and anxiety disorders often occur with this personality disorder. Also other personality disorders can occur such as Dependant, Borderline, Paranoid, Schizoid and Schizotypal personalities (Long, 2009).

Treatment There are a number of different treatments that can be used to treat this disorder including: -Cognitive Behaviour Therapy -Rational-emotive Therapy -Systematic Desensitization -Social Skills Training and Exposure (American Medical Network, 2006)


 * __DSM-IV-TR__**

A pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by four (or more) of the following: []
 * 1) avoids occupational activities that involve significant interpersonal contact, because of fears of criticism, disapproval, or rejection
 * 2) is unwilling to get involved with people unless certain of being liked
 * 3) shows restraint within intimate relationships because of the fear of being shamed or ridiculed
 * 4) is preoccupied with being criticized or rejected in social situations
 * 5) is inhibited in new interpersonal situations because of feelings of inadequacy
 * 6) views self as socially inept, personally unappealing, or inferior to others
 * 7) is unusually reluctant to take personal risks or to engage in any new activities because they may prove embarrassing

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