Personality consists of thoughts, feelings and behaviour. The ways in which a person with Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) thinks, feels and behaves impacts on their life and relationships. Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) is characterised by an excessive need to be taken care of, clingy and submissive behaviour, and indecisiveness. Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) occurs more in young adults than in older adults. DPD has symptoms found in depression such as passiveness and pessimism.

 

Symptoms of Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD)

The symptoms of Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) may include feeling helpless or uncomfortable when alone or not in a relationship, and difficulty in initiating projects. A person with Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) may have a need for others to take responsibility for areas of their life. All Personality Disorders (PD), including Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD), are seen as a mental health problem, or a label that is used to pathologize conduct that is not considered ‘normal’ social behaviour.

Causes of Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD)

Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) may be related to depression, fear of abandonment, low self esteem, childhood loss of a parent, or childhood neglect. DPD may also be related to eating disorders, mood disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), overprotective parenting, panic disorder, self doubt, separation anxiety, social phobia, or suicidal thoughts. Risk factors for developing Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) may include being divorced, never married, separated, or widowed.

 

Disclaimer: All content within the RSCPP website is provided for general information only and should not be treated as a substitute for the advice of a doctor, counsellor, psychoanalyst, psychologist or psychotherapist who you should always consult if you are concerned about your mental health. RSCPP is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content within the RSCPP website or for any service provided by a doctor, counsellor, psychoanalyst, psychologist or psychotherapist. All content copyright © RSCPP Ltd 2007-2013.