Cluster C Personality Disorders

Summary

Cluster C Personality Disorders are the "worried" personality disorders, and they are characterized by anxious or obsessive behavior. Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder is characterized by rigid, perfectionistic behavior. Dependent Personality Disorder is characterized by clingy, submissive behavior. Avoidant Personality Disorder is characterized by hypersensitivity and avoidance of social interaction, despite a strong desire for it.

Key Points

• Cluster C Personality Disorders
  • Worried: characterized by anxious/obsessive behavior
  • Avoidant Personality Disorder
    • Overly sensitive to criticism/disapproval, low self-image
    • Limited social relationships, but desires relationships with others
      • Contrast vs. Schizoid (Cluster A Personality Disorders)
  • Dependent Personality Disorder
    • Needy, clingy, and submissive
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
    • Rigid perfectionist and desire for control
    • May have compulsions or obsessions, but they are wanted
      • Contrast vs. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), where they are unwanted/distressing