Which description best fits avoidant personality disorder?

Which description best fits avoidant personality disorder?

• A. Consistent discomfort and restraint in social situations, feelings of inadequacy, and sensitivity to negative evaluation
• B. A pattern of impulsive behavior and unstable relationships
• C. A need for admiration and a sense of entitlement
• D. A pattern of detachment from social relationships

Answer: (A)

Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by pervasive social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation, which together drive avoidance of social interactions. People with this pattern want close relationships but fear rejection or embarrassment so strongly that they restrain themselves and withdraw from situations where they might be judged. This combination of craving connection and fear of criticism is what sets avoidant personality disorder apart from other patterns of behavior. For example, a pattern of impulsive behavior and unstable relationships points to borderline personality disorder, a need for admiration and a sense of entitlement points to narcissistic personality disorder, and a pattern of detachment from social relationships points to schizoid personality disorder. The distress and avoidance described here are the hallmark of avoidant personality disorder.

Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by pervasive social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation, which together drive avoidance of social interactions. People with this pattern want close relationships but fear rejection or embarrassment so strongly that they restrain themselves and withdraw from situations where they might be judged. This combination of craving connection and fear of criticism is what sets avoidant personality disorder apart from other patterns of behavior. For example, a pattern of impulsive behavior and unstable relationships points to borderline personality disorder, a need for admiration and a sense of entitlement points to narcissistic personality disorder, and a pattern of detachment from social relationships points to schizoid personality disorder. The distress and avoidance described here are the hallmark of avoidant personality disorder.