PSYC FPX 2900 Assessment 2 Features of Cluster B Personality Disorders

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Capella University

PSYC FPX 2900 Introduction to Psychology of Personality

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Cluster B Personalities

Personality is defined as how a person thinks and behaves, while a personality disorder is characterized by maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that make an individual socially awkward. This may include behaviors such as overdramatizing situations, being overly emotional, or acting erratically. Individuals with personality disorders typically behave in ways that deviate from societal norms (American Psychiatric Association, 2018). There are ten distinct types of personality disorders, with four of them categorized as Cluster B. These include antisocial, narcissistic, borderline, and histrionic personality disorders. Cluster B personalities are often characterized by overly dramatic, emotional, and unpredictable behaviors. While personality disorders share some common features, they differ in various aspects.

Regardless of the type of personality disorder, individuals suffering from these conditions often develop additional mental health issues, such as anxiety, mood disorders, or substance abuse disorders. Having a personality disorder also affects the relationships that the individual has with others.

Cluster B Primary Features

Individuals with antisocial personality disorder are often deceitful and frequently lie. They have difficulties respecting others’ rights, leading to issues with obeying the law. Additionally, they struggle with relating to others and lack remorse for their actions. People with antisocial personality disorder are often referred to as sociopaths, who are typically described as erratic and aggressive. Borderline personality disorder is characterized by mood instability, behavioral problems, and issues with self-image. According to an article by Amy Smith in MedNewsToday, females are 1.4% more likely to be affected by borderline personality disorder than males. Individuals with this disorder often have unstable relationships that deteriorate over time. They experience extreme mood swings, depression, feelings of emptiness, or anxiety, and many have a fear of abandonment, typically stemming from past trauma (Smith, 2020).

Histrionic personality disorder is marked by highly emotional and attention-seeking behaviors. These individuals are impulsive, often flirtatious, and charming. Females are more likely to have this personality disorder than males (Smith, 2020). People with histrionic personality disorder crave attention and feel uncomfortable when they are not the center of it. Their behavior is theatrical, and they rarely recognize the inappropriateness of their actions. They often seek attention in a sexually provocative manner and are generally gullible. Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a need for admiration. Individuals with this disorder may exhibit a superiority complex and lack empathy, often having low self-esteem and reacting poorly to criticism.

Developing Personality Disorders

The causes of personality disorders are multifactorial, involving biological factors, environmental influences during upbringing, and experiences of trauma or abuse. These disorders typically begin to manifest in late adolescence or early adulthood. Common signs of a personality disorder include erratic, eccentric, dramatic/unstable, and fearful/anxious behaviors (Psych Guides, 2021; Turner, Sebastian, & Tuscher, 2017). Cluster B personality disorders can be managed with appropriate treatment, often involving a combination of therapy and medication. However, treatment can be challenging because many individuals with personality disorders do not recognize that they have a problem, and therefore, do not seek help. Delaying or avoiding treatment can worsen the condition, making it more difficult to manage. Additionally, treating personality disorders can be complicated by the presence of other mental health conditions, requiring careful selection of medications. Nevertheless, with dedication and proper support, individuals can gradually recover from their personality disorder.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2018). What are personality disorders? Home │ psychiatry.org. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/personality-disorders/what-are-personality-disorders