Hello, I'm a mental health professional with a background in psychology. I'm here to provide you with an informative and comprehensive overview of the types of personality disorders as categorized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which is the primary resource used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental health conditions.
When it comes to personality disorders, they are typically classified into three main clusters based on shared characteristics: Cluster A, Cluster B, and Cluster C. Each cluster has its own set of disorders that share similar traits. Let's delve into each cluster and the disorders it contains.

**Cluster A: Odd/Eccentric Personality Disorders**
This cluster includes individuals who are often perceived as odd or eccentric. They may exhibit behaviors that are considered strange or unusual by societal standards. The disorders in this cluster are:


1. Paranoid Personality Disorder (PPD): Individuals with PPD are characterized by a pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others, interpreting motives as malevolent even when there is no evidence to support such beliefs.


2. Schizoid Personality Disorder (SPD): Those with SPD tend to lack interest in social relationships and may appear indifferent to others. They often prefer solitary activities and have a limited range of emotional expression.


3. Schizotypal Personality Disorder (STPD): STPD is marked by a pattern of social and interpersonal deficits, along with unusual thoughts and perceptions. Individuals may have eccentric behavior, odd beliefs, and may seem to be out of touch with reality.


4. Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): Previously known as sociopathy or psychopathy, ASPD involves a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others. This can manifest in deceitful, aggressive, and impulsive behavior.

**Cluster B: Dramatic/Emotional/Erratic Personality Disorders**
Cluster B includes individuals who are often described as dramatic, emotional, or erratic. They may have intense and unstable interpersonal relationships and may exhibit impulsive and unpredictable behavior. The disorders in this cluster are:


1. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): BPD is characterized by a pattern of unstable relationships, self-image, and emotions. Individuals may experience intense mood swings, impulsivity, and a fear of abandonment.


2. Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD): HPD involves excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior. Individuals with this disorder may be overly dramatic and crave the attention of others.


3. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): NPD is marked by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Those with NPD often have an inflated sense of self-importance and may exploit others to achieve their goals.

**Cluster C: Anxious/Fearful Personality Disorders**
This cluster encompasses individuals who are often anxious, fearful, or avoidant. They may have a strong desire for harmony and may go to great lengths to avoid conflict or rejection. The disorders in this cluster are:


1. Avoidant Personality Disorder (AvPD): AvPD is characterized by a pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation. Individuals may avoid social situations due to fear of criticism or rejection.


2. Dependent Personality Disorder (DepPD): DepPD involves a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of, along with submissive and clinging behavior. Individuals may fear separation and have difficulty making everyday decisions without reassurance from others.

3. **Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD):** OCPD is marked by a preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control. Individuals may be rigid, overly conscientious, and have difficulty delegating tasks or making decisions.

It's important to note that while these categories and disorders provide a framework for understanding personality disorders, each individual's experience can vary widely. Treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication, tailored to the specific needs of the person.

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The types are grouped into three categories:Suspicious -C paranoid, schizoid, schizotypal and antisocial.Emotional and impulsive -C borderline, histrionic and narcissistic.Anxious -C avoidant, dependent and obsessive compulsive.read more >>