Avoidant Personality Disorder
Avoidant personality disorder is a disorder characterized by a lifelong pattern of extreme shyness, feelings of inadequacy, and sensitivity to rejection. Personality disorders are lifelong patterns of behavior that cause problems with work and relationships. The cause of avoidant personality disorder is unknown.
People with avoidant personality disorder 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 individuals will choose loneliness rather than risk trying to connect with others. Without treatment, a person with avoidant personality disorder may become resigned to a life of near or total isolation.
A person with avoidant personality may:
Be easily hurt by criticism or disapproval.
Have no close friends.
Be reluctant to become involved with people.
Avoid activities or occupations that involve contact with others.
Be shy in social situations out of fear of doing something wrong.
Exaggerate potential difficulties.
| Dr. McBee maintains a Web site as a service to prospective and current clients. Links provided to third party sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement or verification of the accuracy of content contained in those sites. The material provided in this Web site is for informational purposes only, and nothing contained in this Web site is intended to substitute for assessment or treatment by Dr. McBee or other mental health professional. Although this Web site may be updated frequently, please note that health and research information changes rapidly, and Dr. McBee cannot assume liability for incorrect or out-of-date information that may inadvertently be contained therein. |