Understanding Cluster C Personality Disorders
Let’s wrap up our review of personality disorders with Cluster C Personality disorders, which are marked by anxiety and fear symptoms.
Individuals with these disorders display behaviors driven by overwhelming worry or apprehension. There are three distinct disorders: Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD), Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD), and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD).
As with all personality disorders, these symptoms are present across multiple settings and situations, causing significant disruption to multiple areas of functioning.
Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD)
Avoidant Personality Disorder is marked by extreme shyness, feelings of inadequacy, and a hypersensitivity to criticism or rejection. Social situations, relationships, and workplace interactions are avoided, often leading to isolation.
People with AVPD often long for connection and fantasize about idealized relationships with others but find themselves isolated due to their avoidance.
For diagnosis, at least 4 out of 7 criteria indicating social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity must be met.
2. Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD)
Dependent Personality Disorder is characterized by an excessive need to be taken care of, leading to submissive and clinging behaviors. They fear abandonment or separation, often leading them to tolerate unhealthy or abusive situations to maintain a relationship. They frequently feel helpless and struggle with decision-making, relying on others to make decisions.
For diagnosis, at least 5 out of 8 diagnostic indicators must be met.
3. Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder is marked by a preoccupation with rules, orders, and schedules; a perfectionistic attitude that makes it difficult to delegate tasks; and a tendency to be overly focused on work and productivity.
True obsessions are not present with OCPD, which differentiates it from obsessive-compulsive disorder. Rather, those with OCPD are preoccupied with orderliness to the point of interference with daily life.
Individuals with OCPD can be highly successful in structured environments but may face challenges in personal relationships and work-life balance. Perfectionistic tendencies and rigidly following rules can severely impact efficiency, even leading to task incompletion.
For diagnosis, at least 4 out of 8 diagnostic criteria must be met.