Avoidant Personality Disorder

Introduction

The topic of this paper, Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD), is a subject I felt could relate to personally to at one time. I would not have classified myself as being affected by AVPD (self-diagnosis is never a good idea), but I could definitely identify with several of the diagnostic criteria. However, with the guidance of therapy, I find my curiosity sparked with regards to this disorder and have an interest in discovering what features those individuals who are affected by AVPD demonstrate as well as potential treatments to help reduce or alleviate symptoms of this disorder.

Avoidant Personality Disorder Overview

Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD) can be defined simply as a disorder in which an individual purposefully withdraws and avoids social contact for fear of rejection (Alloy, Riskind, & Manos, 2004). The individual that exhibits this disorder has an extreme sensitivity to criticism and the idea that they may be rejected, humiliated, shamed, or disapproved by others (Alloy et al., 2004). Morrison (1995) states that the sensitivity to criticism and potential disapproval has an effect making individuals with AVPD more likely to demonstrate modesty and eagerness to please others, however, this sensitivity can also lead to social isolation. The individual with AVPD may have difficulty distinguishing otherwise more innocent comments and view them as being critical. This can also lead to avoiding certain social situations and even career choices that involve a high level of interpersonal demands.

The DSM-IV-TR (American Psychiatric Association, 2000) categorizes AVPD in Cluster C of the Axis II Personality Disorders and outlines the diagnostic criteria as: A pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings...

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...stions as to whether or not AVPD is a distinct disorder from social phobia. Research indicates that there is at the least a similarity and overlap between the two diagnoses. Some research even goes so far as to propose that the two disorders are on the same continuum, simply varying degrees of the same disorder. In any case, Avoidant Personality Disorder causes significant impairment for individuals and should be addressed accordingly.

Once Avoidant Personality Disorder is diagnosed there are then a variety of treatment options available that prove to be effective for the individual. Whether it is a cognitive-behavioral approach, one that is psychodynamically focused, or even an unconventional approach such as wilderness therapy, the focus should be on evaluating each individual in their specific context and tailoring an approach that fits with their needs and goals.