Personality disorders

1. Personality Disorders
Dr.Harim Mohsin

2. Learning Objectives
● To understand the concept of personality & when it becomes a disorder
● To be able to describe the relationship between personality disorder &
other psychiatric disorders
● Learn the classification of personality disorders
● To be able to describe broad principles in the management of personality
disorder.

3. Personality & personality disorder
Personality describes the characteristic behavioural, cognitive & emotional attributes of
an individual. (e.g aggressive man)
Personality forms a major part of the contextual understanding of a case. When certain
traits are extreme enough to cause personal or social distress. (e.g woman who takes
overdoses each time her boyfriend leaves her).
Definition of Personality disorder (ICD-10): They are defined as ingrained patterns
indicated by inflexible and disabling responses that significantly differ from how the
average person in the culture perceives, thinks and feels, particularly in relating to others.

4. Classification of PDs
Divided into 3 Clusters
Cluster A- Eccentric (Aloof or suspicious)
Paranoid- Suspicious/Mistrustful, Sensitive to criticism, Bears grudges, Self
importance.
Schizoid -Emotionally cold/detached, Introspective, social isolation.

5. Cluster B- Dramatic
Dissocial (psychopathic, antisocial): Callous, Unstable, low frustration
threshold, Irritable, impulsive, No guilt.
Borderline (Emotionally unstable): Multiple, turbulent relationships,
Impulsivity, Emotional Crisis, Chronic emptiness.
Histrionic: Exaggerated. Vain, suggestible, shallow, labile Mood.
Narcissitic: Grandiosity, Exaggerated abilities & achievements, Exploitive,
arrogant, Seeks praise & approval.

6. Cluster C- Anxious
Anakatic (obsessional): Excessive orderliness, Perfectionism,
Inflexible.
Anxious (Avoidant): Tension/apprehension, Avoid personal contact,
Fear of criticism/rejection.
Dependent: Encourage others to make decisions, Excessive need to be
taken care of.

7. Causes of Personality disorders
Biological: Genetic Predisposition
Social: Environmental factors

8. Management
Pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral
therapy.
● Lifestyle Management
● Avoid problem-causing behaviour- e.g drugs, alcohol,
confrontations.
● Management crisis & support.
● Treatment of psychiatric problems
● Written care plan & good communication with agencies.
● Respond to threats & discourage manipulative behaviour
● Clarify boundaries of acceptable behavior.
● Treatment of associated substance abuse.

9. Thank You