Types of Personality Disorders
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) categorises ten distinct personality disorders under three different clusters. These are:
Cluster A Personality Disorders
Characterised by behaviours that may be perceived as strange or odd, people with Cluster A personality disorders are socially awkward and withdrawn. They are suspicious of those around them and, as a result, detach themselves from their relationships. People with Cluster A personality disorders could also have a family history of schizophrenia.
There are three personality disorders clubbed under Cluster A:
Paranoid personality disorder
People with paranoid personality disorder tend to be suspicious of others. Their actions are governed by the belief that people are out to get them, even when there is no evidence to substantiate their claim. Consequently, they feel threatened and struggle to put their faith in anyone.
Schizoid personality disorder
This disorder makes people unable to form and maintain relationships, and neither do they show a desire for the same. They are detached, distant, and indifferent. People with this disorder express little to no emotion. They seem to not care for either praise or criticism and may engage in solitary activities.
Schizotypal personality disorder
Characterised by odd and peculiar beliefs, thoughts, behaviour, and appearance, people with this personality disorder are often perceived as bizarre. They tend to be superstitious and socially withdrawn.
Cluster B Personality Disorders
People with Cluster B personality disorder struggle with impulse control and emotional regulation. They often experience intense and unstable emotions and engage in behaviours that are performative, irresponsible, and sometimes, even illegal.
The personality disorders under Cluster B include:
Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)
People with this disorder show a disregard for others. They are rash, irresponsible, and aggressive, and they may violate others' rights to get their way. Their actions often inhibit their own safety. This disorder is characterised by an inability to abide by society’s rules and regulations. They may commit serious crimes and show no remorse for their actions.
Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
Characterised by unstable moods and poor self-image, people with this disorder tend to be impulsive. They have fragile egos and go to great lengths to prevent being abandoned. People with the disorder display inappropriate outbursts of anger and often have intense and chaotic relationships. They may experience a chronic feeling of emptiness and may engage in self-harm.
Histrionic personality disorder
Marked by a constant and excessive need for attention. People with histrionic personality disorder have dramatic outbursts, exaggerate, and often speak with quick, dramatic succession in emotions. They use their appearance to draw attention to themselves and often believe that their relationships are more profound than they are.
Narcissistic personality disorder
People with narcissistic personality disorder exhibit a sense of entitlement and an exaggerated sense of superiority. They often dream of success and power. However, their preoccupation with prestige is an attempt to mask their fragile self-esteem. They seem arrogant and self-centred and display a lack of empathy and understanding for others. They may exploit others for their own benefit and think that their own needs and feelings are more important.
Cluster C Personality Disorders
People with Cluster C personality disorders often shy from criticism and rejection. They do not always confront their fears or embark on new activities. They do not take personal risks either.
This cluster includes:
Avoidant personality disorder
People with avoidant personality disorder avoid social contact. They exhibit extreme shyness and are sensitive to criticism. In fact, their desire to be alone is fuelled by their concern over being embarrassed or judged. They fear rejection and perceive themselves to be socially inept or not good enough.
Dependent personality disorder
People with this personality disorder struggle with making everyday decisions for themselves. They need others to assume responsibility for their life. When left alone, they feel helpless and are often governed by the fear of separation. In a relationship, they focus their energy on pleasing the other person and have a need for constant reassurance. They tend to avoid confrontations and have difficulty expressing their disagreement.
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD)
Perfectionists, people with this personality disorder, have an obsessive need for control, order and cleanliness. They are set in their ways and are inflexible in their morality and values. Their preoccupation with details makes it difficult for them to finish tasks. People with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder may work relentlessly, often leaving no time for leisure or social activities.
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