Personality disorders are categorized into three clusters—A, B, and C—based on shared characteristics and symptoms. Each cluster encompasses specific disorders that affect an individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, leading to significant challenges in personal and professional relationships.

Cluster A: Odd or Eccentric Disorders

Cluster A personality disorders are characterized by odd or eccentric behaviors and thoughts. Individuals with these disorders may appear unusual or peculiar to others.

• Paranoid Personality Disorder: Marked by pervasive distrust and suspicion of others, leading to a belief that others are exploiting or deceiving them. Individuals may interpret benign actions as malicious and often bear grudges.

• Schizoid Personality Disorder: Characterized by a lack of interest in social relationships, a preference for solitary activities, and emotional coldness. Individuals may appear indifferent to praise or criticism and often choose solitary occupations.

• Schizotypal Personality Disorder: Involves odd beliefs or magical thinking, eccentric behavior, and social anxiety. Individuals may have peculiar speech patterns and dress, and often experience social and interpersonal difficulties.

Cluster B: Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic Disorders

Cluster B personality disorders are characterized by dramatic, emotional, or erratic behaviors. Individuals with these disorders may have difficulty regulating their emotions and behaviors.

• Antisocial Personality Disorder: Characterized by a disregard for the rights of others, deceitfulness, impulsivity, irritability, and a lack of remorse. Individuals may engage in unlawful activities and have a history of legal issues.

• Borderline Personality Disorder: Involves instability in relationships, self-image, and emotions, along with impulsivity. Individuals may experience intense episodes of anger, depression, and anxiety, and have difficulty maintaining stable relationships.

• Histrionic Personality Disorder: Characterized by a pattern of seeking attention, excessive emotionality, and a strong desire to be the center of attention. Individuals may engage in behaviors aimed at drawing attention to themselves and may experience significant distress when they are not the focus of attention.

• Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Involves a pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy. Individuals may have an inflated sense of self-importance and a strong desire for recognition and validation.

Cluster C: Anxious or Fearful Disorders

Cluster C personality disorders are characterized by anxious or fearful behaviors. Individuals with these disorders may experience significant anxiety and fear in social situations.

• Avoidant Personality Disorder: Characterized by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation. Individuals may avoid work activities that involve significant interpersonal contact due to fears of criticism or rejection.

• Dependent Personality Disorder: Involves a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of, leading to submissive and clinging behaviors. Individuals may have difficulty making decisions without excessive advice and reassurance from others.

• Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder: Characterized by a preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control. Individuals may be overly focused on work and productivity, leading to neglect of leisure activities and relationships.

Treatment Options

Treatment for personality disorders often involves psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both:

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help individuals recognize and change distorted thinking patterns and behaviors.

• Medication: While no medications are specifically approved for personality disorders, antidepressants such as SSRIs, antipsychotics, or mood stabilizers may be prescribed to address co-occurring symptoms.

It's important to note that many individuals with personality disorders may not seek treatment on their own. Encouraging a loved one to seek help and offering support can be crucial in their journey toward managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life.

Understanding the different clusters of personality disorders is essential for recognizing and addressing the unique challenges they present. If you are experiencing symptoms of a personality disorder, consider scheduling a free discovery call with Dr. Doi to discuss the path forward.