Symptoms and Characteristics of Dependent Personality Disorder

There are certain people who, no matter how hard they try, cannot live alone. They are unable to make decisions and they are more than happy to live by the desires of others. Dependent Personality Disorder causes these people to show a needy, passive and clinging behavior and an excessive fear of separation. Dependent Personality Disorder is a group of conditions that are called Anxious Personality Disorders and they are marked by nervousness and fear.

Dependent Personality Disorder is the most common personality disorder and it is diagnosed equally in men and women. It was first described by Abraham Masilow and it first appeared in the War Department Technical Bulletin in 1945. In 1952 it appeared in the first edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. Many cases of Dependent Personality Disorder have roots to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. In these cases the person doesn’t have a fear of being alone, but they feel that everything is wrong.

There are eight common symptoms and characteristics of Dependent Personality Disorder. These symptoms and characteristics are helpful in the diagnosis of Dependent Personality disorder.

1) They have difficulty in making decisions without excessive advice and reassurance from others.

2) They rely on others to assume responsibility for the major areas of their life.

3) They have difficulty expressing disagreement with others due to a fear of those around them not accepting or approving of them. They are overly sensitive to disapproval.

4) They have difficulty beginning projects or doing things alone. This is not due to a lack of motivation or energy, but rather to a lack of self-confidence in their judgment or ability.

5) They go to excessive measures in order to obtain nurturance and support from others. Those with Dependent Personality Disorder spend a great effort in trying to please others and will often volunteer for unpleasant activities in order to feel accepted.

6) They have feelings of discomfort and helplessness when they are alone due to a fear of not being able to properly care for their self. They often get depressed.

7) They urgently seek another close relationship when their previous one has ended because they need the care and support. They may become suicidal if a break-up is imminent. Some jump from relationship to relationship and others will remain in an abusive relationship.

8) They are preoccupied with unrealistic fears of being left to care for their self.

Dependent Personality Disorder usually begins in childhood, but the exact cause is unknown. Some adults with a prolonged illness or handicap may develop Dependent Personality Syndrome.

There is no specific treatment, but psychotherapy may be used to gradually help the person to become more dependent. Emphasis is made on anxiety coping skills, developing assertiveness and improving decision-making skills. Group therapy may also be helpful. Medication may be used to treat underlying conditions.

If Dependent Personality Disorder is left untreated severe complications can develop. A patient may suffer from depression, alcohol and drug abuse and they may be susceptible to physical, emotional and sexual abuse. If Dependent Personality Disorder is suspected, it is important to get help immediately. A positive prognosis results only from long-term treatment.