Personality disorders are characterized by enduring patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience that deviate markedly from the expectations of the individual’s culture. They are pervasive and inflexible, leading to distress or impairment. In simple terms, individuals with personality disorders often have extreme and rigid personality traits that are distressing to the person and cause problems in work, school, or social relationships.

At BRC Healthcare, we understand that each individual is unique, and we personalize our personality disorder treatment programs’ approach to best suit their needs. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care, helping individuals reclaim their lives from the impact of personality disorders. Call us at 888.559.2036 to learn more.

Understanding the Types of Personality Disorders

Recognizing that your loved one may have a personality disorder is only the first step. Understanding the types of personality disorders they may have is equally important. Each personality disorder has its own unique set of symptoms, challenges, and potential treatments. Knowing more about these can help you empathize with your loved one, provide better support, and guide them toward appropriate treatment. So, what are the different types of personality disorders?

What Are the Different Types of Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders are typically grouped into three clusters: A, B, and C. Each of these clusters has a distinct set of characteristics.

Cluster A: Odd, Eccentric Behavior

• Paranoid personality disorder – Individuals with this disorder have pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others, interpreting their motives as malevolent. They are often overly sensitive, perceive hidden meanings in benign comments, and are reluctant to confide in others due to an irrational fear that the information will be used against them.
• Schizoid personality disorder – This disorder is characterized by a pattern of detachment from social relationships and a limited range of emotional expression. Individuals may prefer to be alone, lack desire for close relationships, and seem emotionally cold or indifferent to others.
• Schizotypal personality disorder – People with this disorder often exhibit odd thinking, beliefs, or behaviors and difficulties forming relationships. They may have strange ideas, dress unusually, believe they have special powers, and feel extremely uncomfortable in social situations.

Cluster B: Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic Behavior

• Antisocial personality disorder – Those with antisocial personality disorder often disregard and violate the rights of others. They may lie, act impulsively, and show a lack of remorse for their actions.
• Borderline personality disorder – Borderline personality disorder involves patterns of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affect, and marked impulsivity. Individuals may have intense mood swings, impulsive behaviors, and extreme reactions, often resulting in tumultuous relationships with others.
• Histrionic personality disorder – Characterized by a pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior, people with this disorder are often uncomfortable when they are not the center of attention, may use physical appearance to draw attention, and exhibit emotionally dramatic behavior.
• Narcissistic personality disorder – Individuals with narcissistic personality disorder exhibit a pattern of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. They often overestimate their importance, require constant praise and admiration, and disregard others’ feelings.

Cluster C: Anxious, Fearful Behavior

• Avoidant personality disorder – People with this disorder exhibit a pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation. They often avoid social interactions for fear of criticism or rejection, despite a strong desire for intimacy.
• Dependent personality disorder – This disorder is characterized by a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of, leading to submissive and clinging behavior and fears of separation. Individuals with this disorder may have difficulty making everyday decisions without reassurance from others and may fear being alone.
• Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (not to be confused with obsessive-compulsive disorder) – People with this disorder have a preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control. They may be overly focused on details, rules, and schedules, have difficulty completing tasks, and insist on doing things their own way.

It’s important to note that these descriptions are generalizations, and individuals with personality disorders can exhibit a range of symptoms that may vary in severity.

Personality Disorder Treatment Program at BRC Healthcare

It’s not easy to watch someone you care about struggle with a personality disorder. But your understanding, support, and guidance can make a world of difference. Reach out to BRC Healthcare today at 888.559.2036 to learn more about our personality disorder treatment program.