Avoidant Personality Disorder

This overview is for educational purposes only and not to be used for self diagnosis. (Source – Psychology Today)

Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by a pattern of behaviour in which a person struggles with shyness to the point of social exclusion. They struggle with social and professional interaction and avoid certain activities due to their fear of criticism. People with this disorder have low self-esteem and spend a lot of time focusing on their own failures. They only form relationships with people who they know won’t reject them because they would rather face loneliness than rejection. 

 

DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and not to be used for self-diagnosis. If you or a loved one can relate to a number of features listed below, then please do use our therapist directory to find a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist that is right for you to receive a professional diagnosis.

What are the primary symptoms/signs of the condition?

  • They are easily hurt by criticism or disapproval
  • They have no close friends.
  • They are reluctant to become involved with people.
  • They avoid activities or occupations that involve contact with others.
  • They struggle with shyness in social situations out of fear of doing something wrong.
  • They exaggerate potential difficulties.
  • They show excessive restraint in intimate relationships.
  • They feel socially unskilled, inferior, or unappealing to other people.
  • They are unwilling to take risks or try new things because they may be embarrassed.

 

Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and not to be used for self-diagnosis. If you or a loved one can relate to a number of features listed below, then please do use our therapist directory to find a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist that is right for you to receive a professional diagnosis.

What factors can be contributing causes?

  • As with most personality disorders, the exact cause of avoidant personality disorder is not known, but both genetic and environmental factors are expected to play a role.
  • The avoidant behaviour typically starts in infancy or early childhood with shyness, isolation, and avoidance of strangers or new places. 
  • Most people who are shy in their early years tend to grow out of the behaviour, but those who develop avoidant personality disorder become increasingly timid as they enter adolescence and adulthood.

 

  • A general practitioner (GP) or psychologist can usually diagnose avoidant personality disorder by asking questions about a person’s medical history and symptoms.
  • The GP/psychologist will also inquire about a patient’s physical health to ensure that the avoidant behaviour is not caused as a result of a different mood disorder or an underlying medical condition, or by factors such as drug or alcohol use.
  • The GP/psychologist will check the symptoms that the patient presents with against the standard criteria for avoidant personality disorder before making a diagnosis.

What is the recommended treatment?

  • People with Avoidant Personality Disorder may have some ability to relate to others, and the ability can be reinforced and improved with treatment. 
  • Without treatment, those with Avoidant Personality disorder may become resigned to a life of near or total isolation. 
  • Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive/behavioral approaches, may be helpful for people with this disorder
  • Antidepressant medication may also be used to reduce sensitivity to rejection. A combination of medication and talk therapy may be more effective than either treatment alone.

  • About 2% of the population, equally divided between the sexes, have this disorder.
  • 10-50% of people who have panic disorder with agoraphobia have an avoidant personality disorder, as well as about 20-40% of people who have social phobia. (Sourced from Addiction Hope).

If you are experiencing any of these signs, here are some activities you can do at home until you are able to consult a professional;

  • Exercise
  • Engage in creative outlets such as writing, painting, or music
  • Keep a gratitude journal
  • Talk to a family member or friend about how you are feeling
  • Practice Mindfulness
  • Practice Yoga
  • Engage in a well-balanced diet
  • Maintain a good sleep schedule 
  • Recognise what you can and can’t handle

 

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