Symptoms & Signs
People with this disorder do not trust their own ability to make decisions. They may be devastated by separation and loss. They may go to great lengths, even suffering abuse, to stay in a relationship.
Diagnosis & Tests
A person with dependent personality disorder may:
- Have difficulty making decisions without reassurance from others
- Have problems expressing disagreements with others
- Avoid personal responsibility
- Avoid being alone
- Feel devastated or helpless when relationships end
- Be unable to meet ordinary demands of life
- Become preoccupied with fears of being abandoned
- Be easily hurt by criticism or disapproval
- Be extremely passive in relations with other people
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Dependent personality disorder : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Dependent personality disorder : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Dependent personality disorder : Treatment
Review Date : 10/17/2008
Reviewed By : Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Timothy A. Rogge, MD, private practice in Psychiatry, Kirkland, Washington. Also reviewed byDavid Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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