Avoidant personality disorder (AVPD) is mental health conditon characterized by pervasive social inhibition, chronic feeling of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to criticism or rejection. It is estimated that 1% of the general population is affected by this condition.

Individuals with AvPD often have low self-esteem and are fearful of being judged, leading to avoidance of social situations and difficulty forming relationships. Although they are interested to interact with others, they tend to avoid social interactions and events altogether due to their extreme fear of rejection.

What Are the Symptoms of Avoidant Personality Disorder

People who have avoidant personality disorder have strong fear of rejection which is why they isolate themselves around people. The pattern of behavior may vary depending on how mild or extreme it is.

Some of the most common symptoms of of AvPD include:

• Fear of being criticized or rejected, and a reluctance to engage in activities that may lead to these experiences
• Difficulty forming close relationships, and a tendency to be shy or reserved around others
• Avoidance of social activities or situations that involve significant contact with others
• A tendency to interpret criticism or rejection as confirmation of one's unworthiness
• Hypersensitivity to social cues, including facial expressions and body language
• Reluctance to try new things or take risks due to fear of failure or embarrassment
• Preoccupation with being disliked or criticized by others
• Feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, and low self-esteem

What are the causes of Avoidant Personality Disorder?

The causes of Avoidant Personality Disorder are not well understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Studies have shown that people with AvPD may have a genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders and that early childhood experiences of rejection or criticism may contribute to the development of the condition.

Childhood abuse and neglect are typically associated with the development of avoidant personality disorder in adulthood (Eikenaes et al., 2015).

What are the treatments for Avoidant Personality Disorder?

Treatment for Avoidant Personality Disorder typically involves a combination of talk therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a commonly used form of therapy that can help people with AvPD challenge negative thoughts and beliefs, develop social skills, and overcome their fear of social situations. Medications such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms.

Living with Avoidant Personality Disorder can be challenging, but with proper treatment and support, many people with the condition can learn to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. If you think you may have AvPD or know someone who does, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional.

Sources:

• Arlin Cuncic, M. (no date) Avoidant personality disorder: Symptoms and treatment, Verywell Mind. Available at: https://www.verywellmind.com/avoidant-personality-disorder-4172959.
• Avoidant personality disorder: Symptoms, treatments, and complications (no date) WebMD. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/avoidant-personality-disorders (Accessed: 01 February 2024).
• Eikenaes I, Egeland J, Hummelen B, Wilberg T (2015) Correction: Avoidant Personality Disorder versus Social Phobia: The Significance of Childhood Neglect. PLOS ONE 10(5): e0128737. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0128737
• Kivi, R. (2017) Avoidant personality disorder: Causes, symptoms, diagnosis, Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/avoidant-personality-disorder.
• Professional, C. C. medical. (n.d.). Avoidant personality disorder. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9761-avoidant-personality-disorder