Personality disorders portfolio
In 3 paragraphs explain this phenomeon of personality disorders are thought to originate during , childhooh, yet most health proffessionals are reluctant to diagnose children with this disorders
1. Is there an age group/range where this behavior may be considered “normal”?
• Identify the age range where symptoms of the disorder may be considered normal
• Provide a clear example
• You may want to review/apply Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development! Click HERE to access Erikson’s theories!
2. Describe how the behavior is “abnormal” for adults. What are some struggles an adult may have if they are abnormally experiencing the symptoms of the personality disorder?
In the Unit 5 Drop Box you should submit the organizer below. I have provided you with an example for Antisocial Personality Disorder.
Personality Disorder Personality Disorder Definition Is there an age group/range where the described behavior may be considered “normal”?
• Identify the age range
• Provide and example Describe how the behavior is “abnormal” for adults. What are some struggles an adult may have with symptoms related to the personality disorder?
EXAMPLE:
Antisocial personality
Lack of regard for moral or legal standards. These individuals also have a difficult time in interpersonal relationships. Additionally, individuals with this disorder are sometimes referred to as sociopaths or psychopaths. Elementary aged kids [ 3-12] are developing social learning and awareness for the rules of society. Fights on a playground or over a toy may result in difficulty to develop interpersonal relationships and overall negative perception of society. Teenagers may go through a period of challenging authority through Erikson’s stages of identity vs. confusion which could be interpreted as a moral or legal disregard towards society. This can be seen by talking back to the teacher, or an act of vandalism. In general, these are phases that kids may grow out of through new experiences and supports.If one were to label a child or treat a child as having antisocial disorder, one may end up conditioning a child to have the disorder when it was initially a circumstantial phase or situation. A lack of moral or legal standards in adulthood is abnormal. An adult, with a developed prefrontal cortex, has the ability to understand consequences for their actions. If there is a struggle to connect with others and build interpersonal relationships, this may result in difficulty with getting and holding a job and building a network for support throughout life. An adult experiencing symptoms associated with an antisocial personality disorder [lack of regard for moral and legal standards] may have the means to premeditate and carry out a plan with little to no oversight from a guardian, where children usually do not.
Avoidant personality
Very self-conscious in social settings, these individuals generally have feelings of inadequacy.
Borderline personality
These individuals have rapid mood swings, impulsive behavior, volatile relationships, and tend to lack personal identity.
Dependent personality
These individuals need to have others around to feel complete and secure. They often are unable to make decisions alone and live in fear of separation from their loved ones.
Histrionic personality
These individuals exhibit exaggerated, inappropriate, and rapidly shifting emotional reactions to everyday situations. They tend to be overly dramatic.
Narcissistic personality
Overly involved with the self. These individuals need to be admired by those around them and they are very sensitive to criticism. They also find it hard to empathize with others and often create unrealistic images of their own greatness. Narcissistic personality disorder is named for Narcissus, a fictional Greek hero who was obsessed with his own image.
Obsessive-compulsive personality
This disorder overlaps with anxiety disorders. These individuals are dogged by inflexible, often repetitive, and uncontrollable patterns of behavior.
Paranoid personality
These individuals have difficulty trusting others, and they often believe, without reason, that others are out to wrong them in some way.
Schizoid personality:
Extreme emotional withdrawal. These individuals show very little, if any, emotion. They can be completely indifferent toward people and/or relationships.
Personality disorders are thought to originate during childhood due to various environmental and genetic factors. However, most health professionals are reluctant to diagnose children with these disorders because children are still developing and going through various stages of psychosocial development. For example, a child who exhibits impulsive behavior and volatile relationships may be considered within the normal range during adolescence when they are navigating Erikson's stage of identity vs. confusion. Labeling a child with a personality disorder at a young age may hinder their growth and development rather than help them.
As these behaviors become more abnormal for adults, individuals with personality disorders may struggle with various aspects of their lives. For example, an adult with antisocial personality disorder may find it difficult to maintain interpersonal relationships and hold down a job due to a lack of regard for moral and legal standards. With a fully developed prefrontal cortex, adults are expected to understand the consequences of their actions and be able to connect with others in a healthy manner. However, individuals with personality disorders may find it challenging to do so, leading to difficulties in functioning within society.
Each personality disorder presents its own set of challenges for adults. Individuals with avoidant personality disorder may struggle with self-consciousness in social settings, while those with dependent personality disorder may find it hard to make decisions without the input of others. Understanding the differences between what is considered normal behavior for a specific age group and what is abnormal for adults is crucial in diagnosing and treating personality disorders effectively. By taking into account developmental stages and societal expectations, health professionals can better support individuals with personality disorders in managing their symptoms and improving their overall quality of life.