Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is a disorder characterized by an inability to be alone. People with DPD develop anxiety symptoms when they are not near others. They rely on other people for comfort, security, advice and support. The difference is that people with DPD need security from others to function.
Causes and symptoms of DPD
A condition must be included in one of the following groups to be classified as a personality disorder:
A: strange
behaviors B: emotional and irregular
behaviors C: anxious, nervous behaviors
DPD belongs to group C. The signs of this disorder include:
- need to rely on friends or family for decision
- making - need for security
- injury from disapproval
- feelings of isolation and nervousness when alone
- fear of rejection
- high sensitivity to criticism
- tendency to be naive
- fear of abandonment
People with DPD may require constant reassurance. They can feel devastated when relationships and friendships end.
When alone, a person with GDD may experience:
- nervousness
- anxiety
- panic attacks
- fear
- hopelessness
It remains unknown what makes people develop DPD. However, experts cite both biological and developmental factors.
What are the risk factors?
Some risk factors that may contribute to the development of this disorder include:
- history of neglect
- abusive education
- being in a long abusive relationship
- having strict parents
- family history of anxiety disorders
How is DPD diagnosed?
A psychiatrist or psychologist usually diagnoses DPD. They consider symptoms, history, and mental state during diagnosis. Diagnosis begins with a detailed history of symptoms.
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Source: Healthline
