Personality Disorders

Personality shapes how we think, feel, and interact with others. However, for individuals with personality disorders, these patterns can become rigid, causing challenges in relationships, self-image, and emotional well-being.

At Owensboro Psychiatric Group, we provide compassionate care to help individuals understand and manage personality disorders, fostering healthier relationships and improved quality of life.

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What Are Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders are mental health conditions where patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving become rigid and difficult to change. These patterns often cause distress or make it challenging to build healthy relationships or cope with everyday life. Typically starting in adolescence or early adulthood, personality disorders can deeply affect how individuals view themselves and interact with others.

Types of Personality Disorders

Personality disorders are typically grouped into three clusters based on shared traits:

Cluster A: Odd or Eccentric Behavior

Paranoid Personality Disorder: Distrust and suspicion of others without clear justification.
Schizoid Personality Disorder: Detachment from social relationships and limited emotional expression.
Schizotypal Personality Disorder: Discomfort in close relationships, eccentric behavior, and unusual thoughts or perceptions.

Cluster B: Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic Behavior

Antisocial Personality Disorder: Disregard for others' rights, impulsivity, and lack of remorse for harmful actions.
Borderline Personality Disorder: Intense emotions, unstable relationships, fear of abandonment, and impulsivity.
Histrionic Personality Disorder: Excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder: A pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy for others.

Cluster C: Anxious or Fearful Behavior

Avoidant Personality Disorder: Social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and sensitivity to criticism or rejection.
Dependent Personality Disorder: Excessive reliance on others for emotional and decision-making support.
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD): Preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control, often at the expense of flexibility.

What Causes Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders often result from a combination of factors, including genetics, early life experiences, and brain chemistry. A family history of mental health conditions may increase risk, while childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect can significantly impact emotional development. Additionally, differences in brain structure or function may play a role in how emotions and behaviors are regulated.

Find Personalized Care for Personality Disorders

Living with a personality disorder can feel isolating, but help is available. At Owensboro Psychiatric Group, we provide compassionate, expert care tailored to your unique experiences. With in-person and telehealth options, we’re here to support you on your journey to improved well-being. Contact us today to learn more about our services.