How To Identify APD? And What Are The Causes Of APD?

Posted by Unknown October 26, 2017

How To Identify APD? And What Are The Causes Of APD?

What Is Avoidant Personality Disorder?

Also known as psychopathy, sociopathy or dyssocial personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder (APD) is a diagnosis applied to persons who routinely behave with little or no regard for the rights, safety or feelings of others. This pattern of behavior is seen in children or young adolescents and persists into adulthood.

The most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, (the fourth edition, text revision or DSM-IV-TR ) classifies APD as one of four “Cluster B Personality Disorders” along with borderline, histrionic, and narcissistic personality disorders .

How To Identify APD?

The people with Avoidant Personality Disorder will choose safe environments around them in which they do not have to get in touch with many people for the fear of being mocked. They even choose jobs which will involve little or no interaction with others. They only form relationships with people if they are sure that they will not be rejected. Social Rejection is so difficult for them that they choose to be with themselves rather than trying to be with others. They feel extreme anxiety in social surroundings even if they want to have a close relationship with the people. They are self-critical people and also do not trust other people easily. They have very low self-esteem due to which they are unable to recognize their positive traits. Self-loathing or self-harm is another symptom that is often seen in the people having APD. In extreme cases, they even fantasize about affectionate relationships. They use fantasy as a medium to escape painful thoughts.

What Are The Causes Of APD?

The causes of Avoidant Personality Disorder are not clearly defined, but they may be influenced by genetic, social and psychological factors. There can be social factors involved like how a child interacts with their family and friends in the early stages. Psychological factors like the person’s personality, temperament and their ability to cope with stress also play a major role. This means that no single cause is responsible. It is rather a complex network of all the three factors combined. Research shows that if a person is having Avoidant Personality Disorder, then it is likely to be passed on to their kids as well. So we should try and cure it in the early stages only. Let us read some ways to cure the disorder.