Personality disorders
Definition:
Individual traits that reflect ingrained, inflexible, and maladaptive patterns of behavior that cause discomfort and impair a persons ability to function.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
The exact cause of personality disorders is not known, however, several theories attempt to explain the cause. Biologic theorists believe chromosomal or nervous system disorders are the cause. Social theorists believe learned behavior responses cause the disorders. Psychodynamic theorists use deficiencies in ego development to explain the causes.
The disorders have only been recently categorized and include the following: People with personality disorders in general do not take responsibility for their own lives and feelings; instead, they tend to blame others. They lack sufficient coping mechanisms to be adaptive and deal with everyday stresses and problems. These disorders are manifested by difficulties in interpersonal relationships with others. The disorders are widespread, with no actual incidence available.
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