2
4
5
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z

Avoidant personality disorder
Definition:
A pattern of social discomfort, fear of negative evaluation, and timidity beginning in early adulthood; extreme shyness.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

There is no clear cause for avoidant personality disorder; some theory states that it is a function of how one is brought up, but biological factors are likely as well.
Symptoms:

People with avoidant personality disorders form relationships with others only if they believe they will not be rejected. They are preoccupied with their own shortcomings. Loss and rejection are so painful that these people will choose loneliness rather than risking themselves in a relationship. Symptoms include:

  • Is hurt by criticism or disapproval
  • Has no close friends
  • Reluctance to become involved with people
  • Avoids activities or occupations that involve interpersonal contact
  • Shy in social situations out of fear of doing something wrong
  • Exaggerates potential difficulties
Signs and tests:
  • History
  • Psychological evaluation
Treatment:

A person with this disorder may eliminate some of the disabling defenses if a positive relationship is formed with a health professional. Medications can also reduce the symptoms.
Expectations (prognosis):

People with this disorder usually have some ability to relate to others appropriately, and with treatment prognosis is improved.
Complications:

A person with avoidant personality disorder may become resigned to a life of near isolation without treatment.
Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with a health care provider if shyness overwhelms your ability to function in life and relationships, or everything requires a "100% guarantee" of being accepted.
Prevention:

Counseling may be helpful for people who seem to be developing this disorder.
Review Date: 5/18/2001
Reviewed By: Christos Ballas, M.D., Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com