Personality disorders are mental health conditions characterized by long-term patterns of behavior, thinking, and emotions that deviate from cultural expectations and cause difficulties in relationships, work, and daily life. They usually develop in adolescence or early adulthood and can be challenging to treat because they are deeply ingrained in a person’s personality. Types of Personality Disorders Personality disorders are classified into three clusters: Cluster A (Odd or Eccentric Behavior) Paranoid Personality Disorder – Distrust and suspicion of others, interpreting their motives as harmful. Schizoid Personality Disorder – Detachment from social relationships, limited emotional expression. Schizotypal Personality Disorder – Odd beliefs, eccentric behavior, discomfort in close relationships. Cluster B (Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic Behavior) Antisocial Personality Disorder – Disregard for the rights of others, impulsive and deceitful behavior. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) – Intense mood swings, unstable self-image, fear of abandonment. Histrionic Personality Disorder – Excessive emotionality, attention-seeking behavior. Narcissistic Personality Disorder – Grandiosity, need for admiration, lack of empathy. Cluster C (Anxious or Fearful Behavior) Avoidant Personality Disorder – Extreme sensitivity to criticism, social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy. Dependent Personality Disorder – Excessive need to be taken care of, submissiveness, fear of being alone. Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) – Preoccupation with order, perfectionism, control (different from OCD). Causes and Risk Factors Genetics – Family history of personality disorders or mental health conditions. Early Life Experiences – Trauma, neglect, abuse, or unstable relationships in childhood. Brain Structure and Functioning – Differences in brain regions linked to emotions and decision-making. Treatment Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy) – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy can help. Medications – No specific drug for personality disorders, but antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotics may help manage symptoms. Lifestyle Changes – Stress management, social support, and self-care strategies. Would you like more details on a specific personality disorder? contact us Arunoday counseling clinic Indore Madhya Pradesh psychologist psychotherapist mental health Therapist marital councellor