Personality Disorder
Personality disorders are long-term patterns of behavior and inner experiences that differ significantly from what is expected. They affect at least two of these areas: Way of thinking about oneself and others. Way of responding emotionally. Way of relating to other people.
History
Theories of personality started with the humoral theory of Greek medicine around 400 BC. Pinel, and later Esquirol and Prichard, are credited with the first descriptions of abnormal personalities in textbooks of psychiatry. An estimated 9 percent of U.S. adults have at least one personality disorder.
Different types of Disorders include:
- Antisocial personality disorder.
- Avoidant personality disorder.
- Borderline personality disorder.
- Dependent personality disorder.
- Histrionic personality disorder.
- Narcissistic personality disorder.
- Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.
- Paranoid personality disorder.
Incidence
It affects people above the age of 18 the most.
Definitions of healthy development and mental wellbeing vary, and each culture present with a diverse range of challenges in personality development and daily functioning. Consequently, personality dysfunction and pathology are quite differently expressed and defined within each specific society
Diagnosis
People get diagnosed around the age of 18.
After the patient receives a mental health evaluation, they get their diagnosis
Causes
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Personality disorders result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The relationship between genetics and these conditions is complex and multifaceted. Twin studies suggest that the heritability of borderline personality disorder accounts for around 50% of a person's risk of developing it.
It's not clear exactly what causes personality disorders, but they're thought to result from a combination of the genes a person inherits and early environmental influences – for example, a distressing childhood experience (such as abuse or neglect).
If you have been given a personality disorder diagnosis you are more likely than most people to have experienced difficult or traumatic experiences growing up, such as: neglect. losing a parent or experiencing a sudden bereavement. emotional, physical or sexual abuse.
Symptoms
Some signs and behaviors that are exhibited are
suspicion and distrust (not trusting others) taking risks. extreme mood swings or emotional outbursts. difficulty with relationships. problems at school or work, and a need for instant gratification (immediate pleasure or reward).
Brain functions that are involved are
amygdala and limbic systems and neurotransmitters that are involved are
serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and amines.
Treatment
Personality disorders are notoriously hard to treat. But research suggests that dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive therapy can help people with one of the most common disorders. People with personality disorders experience abnormal thoughts and behaviors that keep them from functioning as well as they should.
Famous Case
Clara Norton Fowler was one of the first and most famous cases ever. Her symptoms included insomnia, headaches, fatigue, and general agitation.