How to Identify Dependent Personality Disorder

Dependent personality disorder is described as a chronic and excessive desire to be taken care of that leads to a submissive, inability to care for oneself. Those with the disorder also have self humility with an intense fear of abandonment or separation. This pattern of behavior begins in early adulthood.

Instructions

• 1

  Know that people with dependant personality disorder are passive and have a difficult time functioning independently. They leave most major decisions for others to assume responsibility. Symptoms of this disorder are usually seen in early adulthood. More women than men are diagnosed with this disorder.

• 2

  Realize that the lack of self-confidence and dependence on others leaves a person with this disorder unwilling to make demands on others for fear of jeopardizing their relationship. They are often seen as meek or submissive and tend to underestimate their abilities and attributes.

• 3

  Understand that in some instances individuals with dependant personality disorder cannot make everyday decisions. This may include seeking approval for what to wear for the day. The individual often seeks the approval of a spouse or parent regarding where they should live, work and with whom they should associate.

• 4

  Recognize the person suffering from the disorder rarely disagrees with anyone for fear of losing someone they are dependent upon. Individuals with dependent personality disorder cannot usually accomplish tasks independently and rarely initiate tasks on their own.

• 5

  Learn that people with this disorder are often submissive and go to great lengths to seek approval and support from others. This includes volunteering for unpleasant tasks and participating in events in which they have no interest.

• 6

  Realize that individuals with this disorder feel lost and unable to care for themselves when they are alone. A crisis normally occurs for the individual with the disorder when a relationship ends, such as a break-up or a death. The exaggerated fear of abandonment and having to care for themselves forces them to quickly seek another relationship.

• 7

  Use psychotherapy as a treatment option for those with dependent personality disorder. Pharmacological interventions may be helpful to treat any other underlying conditions.