Personality Disorder

The general criteria for a personality disorder in the DSM-5 is seen in the following:

• An enduring pattern of inner experience that deviates markedly form the expectations of the individual’s culture

• The pattern of behaviors are fluctuating and of short duration

• The pattern of behavior leads to mild distress

• Onset of the pattern of behavior can be linked to specific trauma

Jimmy Childs is the team leader for a small marketing firm. He is currently responsible for a presentation to one if the company’s major customers. Members of his team are becoming increasingly frustrated with Jimmy. The deadline for the project is approaching but Jimmy never seems satisfied with the quality of the work despite the reality that he has a group of talented workers who have significantly contributed to the project. Jimmy is never satisfied and spends hours undoing and re-doing their work until it is “perfect.” Unfortunately, Jimmy never seems satisfied. If somebody tries to bring this to his attention, Jimmy accuses them of not sharing his high standards. Which of the following, best explains Jimmy’s behavior?

• Antisocial personality disorder

• Borderline personality disorder

• Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder

• Narcissistic personality disorder

This personality disorder includes a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, lack of empathy, and a constant need for admiration. 

• Borderline

• Avoidant

• Narcissistic

• Passive-aggressive not otherwise specified (NOS)

A defense mechanism commonly used by persons with Cluster A personality disorder is:

• Denial

• Rationalization

• Splitting

• Paranoia

Individuals with _______________ personality disorder often feel inhibited and inadequate.  They avoid meaningful relationships with others and view themselves as inept and inferior.

• Dependent

• Narcissistic

• Schizoid

• Avoidant

Individuals with _______________ personality disorder are socially restricted, lack friends, and are generally cold and detached from others.

• Schizoid

• Schizotypal

• Avoidant

• Paranoid

Jesse Jones often hides valuable objects around his house and later accuses his family of stealing them whenever he cannot find them. He trusts no one, not even his wife or daughters. Jesse always keeps the curtains closed everywhere in his house because he is sure his neighbors are trying to spy on him. His relationship with his wife is very fragile as he is always accusing her of being unfaithful and cheating on him. Jesse’s behavior most closely resembles which personality disorder?

• Avoidant personality disorder

• Schizoid personality disorder

• Paranoid personality disorder

• Schizotypal personality disorder