Personality disorders are long-term patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are very different from what is typically expected. These patterns can affect a person’s relationships, emotions, and how they cope with everyday life. To help understand these conditions better, mental health professionals group personality disorders into three main categories, or clusters, based on common traits. Read on to find out more.
Cluster A – odd or eccentric behaviours
This group includes people who may seem unusual or distant. They might struggle to relate to others or appear suspicious of the people around them. The three main types in this group are:
Paranoid personality disorder
Schizoid personality disorder
Schizotypal personality disorder
People in this cluster often find it hard to trust others or may prefer to be alone. Their behaviour might seem strange to those around them, even if they don’t feel that way themselves.
Cluster B – dramatic or emotional behaviours
This group includes personality disorders where emotions can be intense, and relationships are often difficult. People in this group may act impulsively or struggle with how they see themselves. Types include:
Antisocial personality disorder
Borderline personality disorder
Histrionic personality disorder
Narcissistic personality disorder
Emotions tend to be extreme and change quickly in this cluster. People may react strongly in situations that others would find manageable.
Cluster C – anxious or fearful behaviours
This cluster is linked to high levels of fear and anxiety. People may avoid social situations, rely heavily on others, or fear being left alone. This cluster includes:
Avoidant personality disorder
Dependent personality disorder
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, which is different from OCD.
Learning more and offering support
Understanding personality disorders can lead to better support and less stigma. If you are looking to learn more, helpful mental health training courses Plymouth are run by providers such as www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/plymouth/. These courses cover personality disorders and how to support those affected.
With more knowledge and compassion, we can all play a part in creating safer and more understanding environments at home, at work, and in our communities.
