The eight personality disorders are a classification of personality types that are typically exhibited in an unhealthy way. This can cause significant problems in many areas of life, including work, school, and personal relationships.
There are eight different personality disorders: paranoid, schizotypal, antisocial, borderline, histrionic, narcissistic, avoidant, and dependent. Each has their own unique set of symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
People with personality disorders often have trouble functioning in society and may be at risk for developing other mental health problems. If you think you or someone you know may have a personality disorder, it’s important to seek professional help.
Schizoid personality disorder
Schizoid personality disorder is a mental health condition characterized by a lack of interest in social interactions, preferring to be alone, and having little to no emotional response. Individuals with this disorder may appear cold and distant to others. They may also have difficulty expressing emotions or caring about others.
While people with schizoid personality disorder do not typically experience the same level of distress as those with other mental health conditions, they may still struggle in their everyday lives. For example, they may have trouble keeping a job or maintaining relationships. People with this disorder are also at an increased risk for developing depression or anxiety disorders.
There is no known cause of schizoid personality disorder, but it is believed to be linked to both genetic and environmental factors. Treatment for this condition typically involves therapy and medication. With treatment, people with schizoid personality disorder can learn how to better interact with others and improve their overall quality of life.
Schizotypal personality disorder
People with schizotypal personality disorder often have difficulty in holding down a job or keeping close friendships. They may be seen as loners or outcasts by others. The symptoms of the disorder can make it hard for people to function in everyday life.
There is no known cause of schizotypal personality disorder, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Treatment for the disorder often includes psychotherapy and medication.
Antisocial personality disorder
People with this disorder typically have difficulty following rules and behaving within the boundaries of social norms. They may impulsively engage in risky behaviors without considering the consequences. They may also be irritable and aggressive, especially when they feel thwarted or frustrated. These individuals may take pleasure in causing pain or suffering in others.
Many people with antisocial personality disorder do not seek out treatment on their own accord; instead, they are typically only motivated to seek help when required to do so by the legal system (e.g., after being arrested for a crime). Even then, they may be unwilling to cooperate with treatment recommendations or follow through with recommended therapeutic interventions. The prognosis for people with this disorder is generally poor; however, some individuals are able to make significant improvements if they receive long-term treatment.
Borderline personality disorder
Borderline personality disorder is a mental illness that can cause problems with how a person thinks about themselves and others, and how they manage emotions. It’s common for people with borderline personality disorder to have negative thoughts about themselves (e.g., “I’m worthless”) and to see others as either good or bad, without any shades of gray in between. They may be afraid of abandonment or rejection, which can lead them to take extreme measures to avoid being alone. For example, they might stay in unhealthy relationships or make impulsive decisions that could jeopardize their safety (e.g., engaging in risky sexual behavior). People with borderline personality disorder often have intense emotions that last for long periods of time and can be very difficult to manage. These episodes of anger, anxiety, depression, or hopelessness can seem out of proportion to the situation at hand and can come on very suddenly. The intensity of these emotions can make it hard for people with borderline personality disorder to function in their day-to-day lives. Borderline personality disorder is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders; however, it is also one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized conditions.
Histrionic personality disorder
People with HPD often have a history of unstable relationships and may engage in risky or impulsive behaviors. They may also suffer from anxiety, depression, or other mental health problems. Treatment for HPD typically involves psychotherapy and medication.
Avoidant personality disorder
The cause of APD is unknown but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Individuals with APD often have a family history of the disorder. Childhood trauma or abuse may also be a risk factor for developing APD.