There are 3 different broad types of personality disorders- clusters A, B, & C.

• Cluster A personalities can be seen as bizarre, odd or eccentric.
• Cluster B personalities are thought of as erratic or dramatic personalities.
• Cluster C personalities are usually seen as fearful and anxious.

Cluster A Personality Disorder & Treatment

1. Schizoid personalities tend to dramatically withdraw from others and life until some problem or stressor evokes a need for others and to be helped, which amplifies their conflict and forces them to leave their isolation.
2. Paranoid personalities have an enduring pattern of believing people want to hurt them, simply dislike them, or embarrass/shame them. They tend to withdraw from relationships and become angry and defensive with little evidence for this ongoing conclusion.
3. Schizotypal personalities are typically withdrawn as well but often demonstrate odd beliefs, an odd appearance, and/or sometimes ‘magical beliefs” in their intelligence, prowess, or “God gifted” abilities.

Cluster B Personality Disorder & Treatment

4. Histrionic personalities exaggerate pains and troubles in their lives for sympathy or emotional contact, which often causes others to turn away from them eventually, as family and friends become fatigued with their “injuries” and struggles.
5. Borderline personalities often have tumultuous relationships with co-workers, friends, and family members. These troubles often lead them into psychotherapy for some relief.
6. Antisocial personalities often lack true empathy for others and may demonstrate rejecting, hurtful, or exploitive behaviors with little or no remorse towards others afterwards. They seem to lack shame and guilt for their misbehaviors.
7. Narcissistic personalities tend to have a depleted sense of self and compulsively need to attract attention to themselves to bolster their self-confidence. Lacking in true self love and confidence they are in dire need of filling those holes with the attention of others.

Cluster C Personality Disorder & Treatment

8. Dependent personalities lack self-identification. They always need others to direct or give permission for basic decisions about their self-care and life. They easily give in or fail to take a strong position they believe in for fear they will be rejected if others they care about do not approve.
9. Avoidant personalities avoid social and emotional engagements with others. They need constant reassurance from others in relationships with them or their fear causes them to withdraw and avoid.
10. Obsessive compulsive personalities are often driven by irrational impulses and feelings which make them want to control situations, life, and others in such a way that they can avoid their troubling feelings, which in turn can cause relational problems.

Many times, personality disorders are mild enough that they never lead the person into treatment. Perhaps those with more distress from their personality disorders may find themselves in therapy and a better long-term adjustment than those who live with milder forms of the personality disorder.

Personality Disorder Treatment in Grand Rapids

If you are struggling with a personality disorder, we want you to know that we are here to help. At Sollars & Associates, we have psychotherapists available that can help you with your personality disorder treatment at our Grand Rapids location.  Call today to schedule your appointment!