What Are The Cluster C Personality Disorders?

What Is Cluster C Personality Disorder?

Cluster C personality disorder is a category of psychiatric disorders characterized by a distinct pattern of behavior, emotions, and thinking. It belongs to the Cluster C group of personality disorders as classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Cluster C personality disorders are characterized by excessive anxiety, fearfulness, and an overall preoccupation with safety, control, and order.

What Are Cluster C Personality Disorders?

There are three specific types of Cluster C personality disorders:

• Avoidant Personality Disorder (APD): People with APD fear rejection, criticism, and being negatively evaluated by others. They often avoid social situations and may be reluctant to engage in new activities or relationships due to their fear of humiliation or embarrassment.
• Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD): Individuals with DPD exhibit a pervasive need to be cared for by others. They have difficulty making decisions independently and rely excessively on others for guidance and support. They may deeply fear abandonment and go to great lengths to avoid being alone.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD): OCPD is characterized by a preoccupation with perfectionism, orderliness, and control. People with OCPD often set excessively high standards for themselves and others, leading to rigid and inflexible behavior. They may have difficulty delegating tasks, focus excessively on rules and details, and have a strong need for order and efficiency.

Individuals with Cluster C personality disorders typically experience significant distress and impairment in various areas of life, including work, relationships, and overall functioning. While these disorders may share some common features, each type has distinct symptoms and challenges.

Diagnosis of a personality disorder requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health professional. Treatment for Cluster C personality disorders often involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support systems to help individuals manage their symptoms, improve coping skills, and enhance their overall well-being.

Cluster A B C Personality Disorders

Cluster A, B, and C are three distinct clusters of personality disorders as categorized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Here’s a brief overview of each cluster:

Cluster A Personality Disorders: Cluster A includes three types of personality disorders characterized by odd, eccentric, and peculiar behavior:

• Paranoid Personality Disorder: Individuals with paranoid personality disorder are suspicious and mistrustful of others, often interpreting benign actions as malicious. They may be excessively guarded, have difficulty forming close relationships, and tend to hold grudges.
• Schizoid Personality Disorder: People with schizoid personality disorder tend to be loners who prefer solitary activities and have little interest in social interactions. They often appear emotionally detached, have limited emotional expression, and struggle with forming close relationships.
• Schizotypal Personality Disorder: Individuals with schizotypal personality disorder display peculiar beliefs, eccentric behavior, and social discomfort. They may have odd or magical thinking, experience perceptual distortions, and have difficulty maintaining close relationships.

Cluster B Personality Disorders: Cluster B includes four types of personality disorders characterized by dramatic, emotional, and erratic behavior:

• Antisocial Personality Disorder: People with antisocial personality disorder disregard the rights of others, engage in impulsive and reckless behavior, and often lack empathy. They may have a history of legal problems and disregard social norms.
• Borderline Personality Disorder: Borderline personality disorder is characterized by unstable moods, intense fear of abandonment, impulsive behaviors, and difficulties with self-image. Individuals with this disorder often experience intense and unstable relationships.
• Histrionic Personality Disorder: Individuals with histrionic personality disorder seek attention and validation, often displaying excessive emotionality, dramatic behavior, and an exaggerated need for approval. They may be overly concerned with their appearance and constantly seek reassurance and praise.
• Narcissistic Personality Disorder: People with narcissistic personality disorder have an inflated sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. They often have grandiose fantasies, seek attention and praise, and may exploit others for personal gain.

Learn More:

• What Are Cluster B Personality Disorders?
• Cluster A Personality Disorders & Traits
• Narcissistic Personality Disorder Treatment & Diagnosis
• Schizoid Personality Disorder Symptoms, Causes & Treatments
• Avoidant Personality Disorder Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
• Antisocial Personality Disorder Treatment & Diagnosis
• Quick 3 Minute Paranoid Personality Disorder Test
• Do I Have Borderline Personality Disorder Quiz
• Top 4 Types of Borderline Personality Disorder Medication
• Short-Term Disability Mental Health

2.4%

The estimated prevalence of Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD) in the United States is approximately 2.4%.

Source: National Comorbidity Survey Replication

7.9%

The estimated prevalence of Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) in the United States is approximately 7.9%.

Source: National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions

How Are Personality Disorders Cluster C Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Cluster C personality disorders, which include avoidant personality disorder, dependent personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, typically involves a comprehensive assessment conducted by a mental health professional. Here are the key steps and criteria involved in diagnosing Cluster C personality disorders:

• Initial Evaluation: The diagnostic process usually begins with an initial evaluation, including a thorough clinical interview and a review of the individual’s medical and psychiatric history. The mental health professional will gather information about the person’s symptoms, behaviors, thoughts, and emotions and their impact on daily functioning and relationships.
• Diagnostic Criteria: To diagnose a Cluster C personality disorder, the mental health professional will refer to the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Each specific personality disorder within Cluster C has criteria to be met for a diagnosis.
• Symptom Assessment: The mental health professional will assess the presence and severity of symptoms related to the specific personality disorder being considered. They will look for patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that align with the diagnostic criteria. This may involve using standardized assessment tools, structured interviews, and observations.

Treatment for Cluster C personality disorders, which include avoidant personality disorder, dependent personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, typically involves a multimodal approach that addresses the specific symptoms and challenges associated with each disorder. Here are some common treatment options:

• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is often recommended as a primary treatment approach for Cluster C personality disorders. CBT helps individuals identify and modify maladaptive thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors contributing to their symptoms. It also focuses on developing healthier coping strategies, improving social skills, and addressing specific fears and anxieties.