The Insecurity of Dependent Personality Disorder

Dr. Tracy Marx discusses Dependent Personality Disorder, a Cluster C disorder characterized by an excessive need for care, leading to submissive behavior and fear of separation. The disorder is defined by eight characteristics, remembered by the mnemonic 'Reliance'. These include reassurance, expressing disagreement, life responsibility, initiating projects, being alone, nurturance, companionship, and exaggerated fears. The disorder is rare, with less than 1% prevalence, and can be linked to childhood separation anxiety or chronic medical issues. Treatment focuses on addressing co-occurring anxiety or depression and includes assertiveness training.

Which cluster of personality disorders does Dependent Personality Disorder belong to?

• Cluster A

• Cluster B

• Cluster C

• Cluster D

What does the 'R' in the mnemonic 'Reliance' stand for in the context of Dependent Personality Disorder?

• Reassurance

• Respect

• Reliability

• Responsibility

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Dependent Personality Disorder?

• Excessive need for reassurance

• Fear of separation

• Preference for solitude

• Difficulty making decisions

What is a common fear for individuals with Dependent Personality Disorder?

• Fear of animals

• Fear of heights

• Fear of being alone

• Fear of success

What is the prevalence of Dependent Personality Disorder in the general population?

• Less than 1%

• 5%

• 20%

• 10%

What is a potential childhood factor that can lead to Dependent Personality Disorder?

• Chronic medical problem

• High academic achievement

• Early independence

• Lack of friends

Which treatment approach can help with the thinking patterns in Dependent Personality Disorder?

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

• Assertiveness training

• Group therapy

• Medication