Dependent Personality Disorder

Definition:

Dependent Personality Disorder is a psychological disorder characterized by an excessive need to be taken care of by others. Individuals with this disorder often have difficulty making decisions, fear rejection and isolation, lack self-confidence, and rely heavily on others to meet their emotional and physical needs.

Symptoms:

• Difficulty making everyday decisions without excessive advice or reassurance from others.
• Need for others to assume responsibility for most major areas of their life.
• Fear of being left to take care of themselves.
• Difficulty expressing disagreement with others due to fear of rejection or loss of support.
• Difficulty initiating projects or doing things independently.
• Will go to excessive lengths to obtain nurturance and support from others.
• Unrealistic fears of being left to take care of oneself.
• Feeling uncomfortable or helpless when alone for extended periods.
• Preoccupation with fears of having to take responsibility for their own life.
• Tendency to urgently seek a new relationship when a close one ends.

Treatment:

Treatment for Dependent Personality Disorder often involves psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps individuals to challenge and change their irrational beliefs and thoughts, develop self-confidence, improve decision-making skills, and become more independent. Medication may also be prescribed to address associated symptoms such as anxiety or depression.