When one's personality traits and/or behavior become rigid and consistently deviate from the expectations of one's
society, consistently
blunt one's social life and ability to function appropriately in
society. Usually manifested before the
age of 15 and persisting into adulthood.
Often the result of abusive or otherwise unstable
home environments in childhood, as well as from
heavy stress, if not with some influence of genetic predisposition.
The three main clusters of personality disorders are:
A (odd)
*paranoid personality disorder (irrationally suspicious and mistrustful)
*schizoid personality disorder (uninterested in socializing or pleasure)
*schizotypal personality disorder (odd behavior/odd thoughts)
B (
dramatic)
*antisocial personality disorder (disregard for laws and for the feelings of others)
*histrionic personality disorder (attention-seeking exhibitionist)
*borderline personality disorder (extreme "black and white" thinking and emotional instability)
*narcissistic personality disorder (grandiose and lacking empathy)
C (anxious)
*avoidant personality disorder (shy, insecure, and highly sensitive)
*dependent personality disorder (psychological dependence on others)
*obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (rigid conformity to rules, morality, and orderliness)
"Insanity can be cured. Personality disorders are so inextricably entwined with the heart and mind and
soul that it is well-nigh impossible to excise them."
-
Ann Rule, "
Small Sacrifices" page 442
It is preferable to be crazy, since "crazy" can be treated; the conscience can't grow
back for the sociopath (antisocial personality), the histrionic can't leave center stage, the narcissist can't leave the mirror, and the borderline personality mainly thinks in "black and white" terms.
