Which statement describes dependent personality disorder?

Which statement describes dependent personality disorder?

• A. Pattern of clinging and obedience, fear of separation, and an ongoing need to be taken care of
• B. A persistent fear of social situations due to embarrassment
• C. A cycle of depression and anxiety in response to stress
• D. A tendency toward obsessive planning and rigidity

Answer: (A)

Dependent personality disorder shows up as an excessive need to be taken care of, leading to clingy and submissive behavior and a deep fear of being separated from others. People with this pattern rely on others to make most decisions, seek frequent reassurance, and have difficulty functioning independently. The statement described captures that dynamic directly: a pattern of clinging and obedience, fear of separation, and an ongoing need to be cared for. The other descriptions align with different issues: fear of embarrassment in social situations fits social anxiety; a cycle of depression and anxiety in response to stress resembles a mood or adjustment-related pattern rather than a stable personality structure; and obsessive planning and rigidity point to obsessive-compulsive personality traits, which emphasize order and control rather than dependency on others. Treatments typically focus on building autonomy, decision-making skills, and healthier independence through psychotherapy.

Dependent personality disorder shows up as an excessive need to be taken care of, leading to clingy and submissive behavior and a deep fear of being separated from others. People with this pattern rely on others to make most decisions, seek frequent reassurance, and have difficulty functioning independently. The statement described captures that dynamic directly: a pattern of clinging and obedience, fear of separation, and an ongoing need to be cared for.

The other descriptions align with different issues: fear of embarrassment in social situations fits social anxiety; a cycle of depression and anxiety in response to stress resembles a mood or adjustment-related pattern rather than a stable personality structure; and obsessive planning and rigidity point to obsessive-compulsive personality traits, which emphasize order and control rather than dependency on others. Treatments typically focus on building autonomy, decision-making skills, and healthier independence through psychotherapy.