Dependent Personality Disorder: Clinical Implications and Current Treatment Approaches
Abstract
Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is a mental health disorder that is characterized by an individual’s inability to make independent decisions and a tendency to rely on other people for guidance and approval. This article will discuss the clinical implications of DPD, the current diagnostic criteria and associated features, and the various treatment approaches available.
Introduction
Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is a mental health disorder that is characterized by an individual’s inability to make independent decisions and a tendency to rely on other people for guidance and approval. People with DPD can often be seen as needy, clingy, and overly submissive to other people, leading to feelings of insecurity and anxiety due to the fear of being abandoned. DPD is a lifelong disorder that can cause significant distress and impairment in functioning if left untreated.
Clinical Implications & Diagnostic Criteria
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) identifies DPD as a Cluster C personality disorder, which is characterized by anxious and fearful behavior. To meet the criteria for a diagnosis of DPD, an individual must display at least five of the following symptoms: (1) difficulty making independent decisions, (2) difficulty expressing disagreement with others, (3) difficulty initiating activities, (4) difficulty taking responsibility for oneself, (5) extreme fear of abandonment, (6) limited social skills, (7) need for excessive reassurance and approval, (8) preoccupation with being taken care of, (9) submissiveness to others, and (10) difficulty expressing feelings.
Associated Features
People with DPD may also exhibit an array of associated features, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, poor self-image, feelings of helplessness, and difficulty establishing meaningful relationships with others. Additionally, people with DPD may have difficulty setting and achieving goals, making decisions, and managing their own lives independently.
Treatment Approaches
DPD is a treatable disorder, and the most commonly used treatments are psychotherapy and medications. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), can help people with DPD to gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors and learn skills to manage their symptoms. Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.
Conclusion
Dependent personality disorder is a serious mental health disorder that can cause significant distress and impairment in functioning if left untreated. This article has discussed the clinical implications of DPD, the current diagnostic criteria and associated features, and the various treatment approaches available. With proper treatment, people with DPD can learn to manage their symptoms and lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association.
Beck, A. T., Freeman, A., Davis, D. D., & Associates. (2004). Cognitive therapy of personality disorders (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press.
Lieb, K., & Hoffman, D. (2007). Cognitive-behavioral approaches in the treatment of personality disorders. Current Psychiatry Reports, 9(2), 99-105.
Rosenfield, D., & Schulenberg, S. (2008). Interpersonal therapy for personality disorders. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 31(3), 489-507.