Avoidant Personality Disorder
What is avoidant personality disorder?
People with avoidant personality disorder are extremely shy and feel inadequate to others and are afraid of rejection. They want close relationships but don’t have the confidence to form them.
It affects between 1.8% and 6.4% of the UK population.
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
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Low self-esteem, feeling inferior
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Excessive feelings of shame
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Avoid new activities and close contact with others
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Very sensitive to criticism and read into things as negative
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Hard to develop close relationships because of a fear of not being liked
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Lack of enjoyment and interest in things
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Anxious and fearful or embarrassment in social situations
Causes
It is thought that a combination of biological and genetic factors could make someone vulnerable to developing avoidant personality disorder. Social, environmental and psychological factors trigger the person in daily life and shape their thoughts and behaviours. It is also possible that it can be passed on from parents to their children.
Outlook
Some people with avoidant personality disorder develop other behavioural and psychological conditions such as drug and alcohol misuse or depression because of the pressure they find in social situations for example. If diagnosed early these problems are far less likely to develop. Also with help developing better coping skills and attending therapy, symptoms of the condition can also be reduced for a better quality of life.
Treatment
Psychotherapy is recommended for people with avoidant personality disorder. Particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and group-based therapy to help the person voice their fears, learn ways to cope with those fears and anxieties, interact with others, become more comfortable in social situations and with criticism.
Access the Treatments page for more information
Personality Disorders Plymouth