Personality Theories Exam 3.1

What is a defining feature of borderline personality patterns?

Extreme instability in relationships, mood, and sense of identity, often with fear of abandonment.

What emotional pattern is common in borderline presentations?

Rapid mood shifts and intense emotional reactivity.

What hidden dynamic often drives narcissistic behavior?

Underlying insecurity masked by exaggerated self-importance.

What separates a narcissist from a sociopath?

Narcissism centers on fragile self-worth, while sociopathy is shaped more by environmental factors like crime or abuse.

What is a key difference between psychopaths and sociopaths (based on lecture framing)?

Psychopathy is more tied to personality traits, while sociopathy is linked to environmental influences.

What behavior style is typical in histrionic patterns?

Dramatic, attention-seeking behavior with exaggerated emotional expression.

How do individuals with histrionic traits often draw others in?

Through strong emotional expressiveness and social charm early in interactions.

Why is treatment difficult for paranoid personalities?

They struggle with trust and tend to hold onto perceived wrongs.

What is a key social pattern in schizoid personality?

Preference for isolation and minimal interest in close relationships.

How does schizotypal personality differ from schizophrenia?

Schizotypal traits are consistent personality patterns, not episodic psychotic breaks.

What everyday challenge defines dependent personality?

Difficulty making even small decisions without reassurance.

What core fear drives avoidant personality patterns?

Fear of rejection and negative evaluation.

Why are romantic relationships especially difficult for avoidant individuals?

They expect rejection and avoid vulnerability.

What is the main struggle in obsessive-compulsive personality patterns?

Perfectionism that interferes with completing tasks.

How is obsessive-compulsive personality different from hoarding?

Difficulty letting go is due to control/perfection, not attachment to objects.

What are the “4 D’s” used to evaluate abnormal behavior?

Deviance, Distress, Dysfunction, Disproportion

What cluster includes paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal personalities?

Cluster A (odd or eccentric patterns)

What cluster includes Antisocial, Borderline, Histrionic, and Narcissistic personality disorders?

Cluster B (dramatic or emotional changing)

What cluster includes avoidant, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personalities?

Cluster C (anxious or fearful patterns)