Paranoid Personality Disorder
The word personality describes deeply ingrained patterns of behavior and the manner in which individuals perceive, relate to, and think about themselves and their world. Personality traits are conspicuous features of personality and are not necessarily pathological, although certain styles of personality traits may cause interpersonal problems. Personality disorders are enduring patterns of inner experience and behavior that deviates markedly from the expectations of an individual culture.
Paranoid personality disorder is a condition characterized by excessive distrust and suspiciousness of others. These people believe that the intentions of others are malicious. Usually unable to acknowledge their own negative feelings toward others, but they do not loose touch with reality. No matter what, they will not confide with other people, even if they prove trustworthy, for fear of being exploited of betrayed. Misinterpreting harmless comments and behavior, they may build up and harbor unfounded resentment for an unreasonable length of time(Asch, 1975).
Individuals with this disorder are usually difficult to get along with. They often have problems with close relationships because of their excessive suspicious attitude and their high hostility. These people affected by this disorder have a high degree of control over those around them because of their attitudes and how people are afraid to cross them; often rigid, critical of others, and are unable to work with others. Those who are severely affected may be perceived by others as fanatics and even end up forming tightly knit cults or groups with others who share their paranoid beliefs (Paranoid Personality).
Personality disorder effects only .5% to 2.5% of the general population. Seen in two percent to ten percent of psychiatric outpatients, this disorder occurs most often in males. It is apparent in childhood and adolescence with solitariness, poor peer relationships, social anxiety,...
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