Title: Personality Disorders
Course: Question bank check

Q: An individual with a personality disorder displays
- adaptive and flexible personality traits that are stable and easily understood by others. (Incorrect. This definition is incorrect, as individuals with personality disorders show inflexible and unstable ways of thinking, feeling, and relating to others.)
- patterns of extreme mood swings ranging from depression to mania. (Incorrect. Mood swings and extreme emotions can be a feature, or symptom, of certain personality disorders, but does not define them as a whole.)
- many different types of personalities in which the individual switches between on a daily basis. (Incorrect. Individuals with personality disorders can display many features or facets of personality, but expressing many different personalities would be the main feature of multiple personality disorder.)
- rigid and pervasive personality styles that differ from cultural expectations and cause the individual significant distress or impairment. (Correct! Individuals with personality disorders show enduring personality styles that are maladaptive and inflexible, often creating inter-relational problems and personal distress.)
A: rigid and pervasive personality styles that differ from cultural expectations and cause the individual significant distress or impairment.

Q: John told his brother that his house had been broken into, and that cameras and microphones were set up to record him. Even after his brother came and checked the house to find no evidence, John proceeded to install cameras of his own to catch the perpetrators in the act. John would best fit into which cluster of personality disorders?
- Cluster B (Incorrect. Personality disorders in Cluster B include dramatic, emotional, or erratic features. Types in this cluster include antisocial, histrionic, and borderline personality disorders.)
- Cluster C (Incorrect. Cluster C are the fearful or anxious types and include avoidant, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders. Although John displays fear, it is best understood as paranoia, unlike those in Cluster C, which are more fearful of going into public places or of loved ones leaving them.)
- Cluster D (Incorrect. There are no Cluster D personality disorders included in the DSM-5.)
- Cluster A (Correct! Cluster A personality disorders include individuals who display odd or eccentric features. This includes the paranoid type that is displayed by John, since he still believes there are people that set up equipment to watch him in his own home, even though his brother came to check and found no evidence.)
A: Cluster A

Q: Janessa is terrified of feeling abandoned so she attaches herself to her friends and family in a very demanding way. This causes her loved ones to push away, and in return, Janessa feels lonely, rejected, and empty. She often engages in risky and dangerous behaviors, as she has very unstable moods and unpredictable actions. Janessa fits the pattern of a personality disorder in which of the following clusters?
- Cluster A (Incorrect. Individuals with personality disorders in Cluster A exhibit patterns of paranoia or psychosis, including features of disorganized thinking, eccentric behaviors, and aloofness.)
- Cluster C (Incorrect. Cluster C includes anxious and fearful types. Although Janessa is fearful of abandonment, this is a key feature of Cluster B personalities. She does not display much anxiety, and displays many other features of Cluster B.)
- Cluster D (Incorrect. There are no Cluster D personality disorders included in the DSM-5.)
- Cluster B (Correct! Cluster B personality disorders are the dramatic, erratic, and emotional types and include antisocial, histrionic, and borderline personalities. Janessa’s avoidance of feelings of abandonment along with her impulsive behaviors and unstable moods would classify her into Cluster B.)
A: Cluster B

Q: A diagnosis of paranoid personality disorder can be made once
- an individual experiences ongoing hallucinations such as hearing voices. (Incorrect. A key understanding of paranoid personality disorder is that it does not include symptoms of hallucinations, which are more commonly seen in individuals with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.)
- an individual experiences delusions of grandeur, where they believe themself to be more important and significant than others. (Incorrect. Although an individual with paranoid personality disorder may feel that people are out to get them, or that they are the center of others plots and plans. They do not have an inflated sense of self, and delusions are not a component of paranoid personality disorders.)
- symptoms of distrust and suspicion have been absent for more than one month. (Incorrect. Suspicion and distrust are two of the most common features of paranoid personality disorder, and in order for this diagnosis to be made, one would exhibit these features.)
- schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders have been ruled out. (Correct! In order for paranoid personality disorder to be diagnosed, other psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia must first be ruled out. Due to shared symptoms between psychotic disorders and paranoid personality disorder, it is crucial that the most suitable diagnosis is made in order to effectively treat the individual.)
A: schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders have been ruled out.

Q: Marco’s friends have noticed he has been acting a bit strange lately. Recently, they went out for dinner and Marco refused to eat his food, stating he believed the chef poisoned his meal. He also told his friends that he has been working on a plan to catch the chef in action, but that he can’t disclose any details about the plan in case one of his friends told the chef. Which main characteristic of paranoid personality disorder is Marco displaying at his dinner?
- viewing harmless comments made by his friends as threatening (Incorrect. Although his friends have noticed he has been acting a bit strange, they did not make any comments to Marco in the situation, and there was no sign that Marco took anything said by his friends as threatening.)
- holding a grudge against the chef (Incorrect. Marco is suspicious of the chef, but does not show any signs of holding a grudge against him.)
- defending his actions against his friends' concern (Incorrect. Marco does justify his paranoid belief by explaining to his friends that he is coming up with a plan to catch the chef; however, his friends do not state anything in the scenario to which Marco looks to defend.)
- suspicion that others are intentionally harming him (Correct! One of the key features of paranoid personality disorder is believing others are trying to harm them, which Marco clearly displays by thinking the chef poisoned his meal and coming up with a plan to counteract the perceived attack.)
A: suspicion that others are intentionally harming him

Q: Which of the following statements would most likely be made by an individual who has been diagnosed with paranoid personality disorder?
- ”My boss is in love with me. I know she is married, but she keeps looking over this way and it’s probably because I am the smartest and most handsome employee in this office. Well, in any office.” (Incorrect. An individual making this statement is showing an inflated sense of self-importance and believes that his married boss is in love with them. These are key characteristics of narcissistic personality disorder, and although the center of the attention is on the individual, they show now signs of paranoia.)
- ”Everyone hates me. I am useless and just want to sit on my couch all day and do nothing. No one would even care if I answer the phone or don’t show up at work.” (Incorrect. The key characteristics highlighted in this statement would be an unstable image of self, feelings of emptiness, and depression, which are key features of borderline personality disorder.)
- ”I don’t have friends or family and I am fine with that. It doesn’t matter to me if people like me or not, and I would say I do not have very strong feelings.” (Incorrect. An individual making this statement is showing a lack of interest in relationships, emotional detachment, and indifference to social judgements, which are key traits of schizoid personality disorder.)
- “My boss keeps staring at me. I think she has been spying on my computer and is trying to get the whole office to team up against me.” (Correct! This statement exhibits suspicion of others plotting against the individual, which is a key characteristic of paranoid personality disorder.)
A: “My boss keeps staring at me. I think she has been spying on my computer and is trying to get the whole office to team up against me.”

Q: Mia has rarely shown any emotion, and now that she's off on her own for college, she chooses to remain alone and is not interested in going out. She almost never interacts with her roommates and doesn't have any close friends. What type of personality disorder might she have?
- paranoid personality disorder (Incorrect. Although an individual with paranoid personality disorder may choose not to form close relationships out of mistrust, Mia shows no signs of paranoia and better fits the criteria of another personality disorder.)
- schizotypal personality disorder (Incorrect. An individual with schizotypal personality disorder may lack close friends, but would show symptoms more related to eccentric thoughts and behaviors.)
- narcissistic personality disorder (Incorrect. Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by beliefs that one is more important than others, and that they deserve special treatment from others. Mia does not display any of these traits in the example.)
- schizoid personality disorder (Correct! Mia displays key characteristics of schizoid personality disorder, as she shows little emotion and chooses to remain alone and lacks interest in socializing.)
A: schizoid personality disorder

Q: James works at an office where everyone is friends and socializes outside of work. Although he’s always invited, James always declines to join and shows no gratitude for or interest in the offer. He would rather go home and spend the night alone. James most closely fits the characteristics of which personality disorder?
- schizotypal personality disorder (Incorrect. Although an individual with schizotypal personality disorder may lack close friends, they would exhibit symptoms more closely related to eccentric thoughts and behaviors, which James does not display.)
- paranoid personality disorder (Incorrect. James does not exhibit any of the key traits for paranoid personality disorder, which include mistrust in others and believing others are plotting against them.)
- borderline personality disorder (Incorrect. Individuals with borderline personality disorder avoid feeling abandoned at all costs and engage in dangerous and impulsive behaviors.)
- schizoid personality disorder (Correct! Individuals with this disorder show little to no interest in socializing or forming intimate relationships with others. James appears to lack close friends and emotional expression.)
A: schizoid personality disorder

Q: A diagnosis of schizoid personality disorder is made when an individual displays which of the following characteristics?
- a pervasive pattern of suspiciousness and mistrust in others, easily takes offense and holds grudges, and refuses intimate relationships with others (Incorrect. These characteristics mentioned are the key characteristics of paranoid personality disorder.)
- eccentric and odd behaviors, emotions, and thoughts, idiosyncratic speech, inappropriate emotions, and a lack of close relationships (Incorrect. The personality disorder best described from these traits is schizotypal personality disorder.)
- violation of the rights of others with a lack of remorse or guilt and uses manipulation and deception for pleasure or personal gain (Incorrect. Antisocial personality disorder can best be described by these characteristics.)
- a pervasive pattern of detachment from and disinterest in social relationships, emotional flatness, and a preference for solitary activities (Correct! These characteristics accurately describe an individual with schizoid personality disorder.)
A: a pervasive pattern of detachment from and disinterest in social relationships, emotional flatness, and a preference for solitary activities

Q: Monica has never had any close friends, and avoids creating any intimate relationships as she believes people would view her negatively and possibly deceive or harm her. When asked about her interests, Monica expresses strange beliefs such as superstitions and communicating with spirits. Monica would most likely be diagnosed with which personality disorder?
- paranoid personality disorder (Incorrect. Although Monica does express a fear of becoming close to others due to possible deception or harm, she also displays strange beliefs and superstitions that more closely align her with a different personality disorder.)
- histrionic personality disorder (Incorrect. Individuals diagnosed with this personality disorder seek to be the center of attention and admiration of others. Monica displays the opposite traits, as she avoids social interactions and forming relationships due to fears of judgement or deception.)
- schizoid personality disorder (Incorrect. Schizoid and schizotypal personality disorders share common features; however, the key difference in their lack of social interactions and intimate relationships is that an individual with schizoid personality simply has no interest in forming relationships because they perceive it to be a waste of time. Monica does so due to her fear of others.)
- schizotypal personality disorder (Correct. Monica displays key features of schizotypal personality disorder including strange beliefs and magical thinking, social anxiety with a fear of others, and paranoid ideation.)
A: schizotypal personality disorder

Q: Which of the following statements accurately reflects individuals diagnosed with schizotypal personality disorder?
- They have dramatic and intense emotional expressions, both positive and negative. (Incorrect. Individuals with schizotypal personality disorder show inappropriate or limited emotional expression and affect.)
- They are afraid of abandonment and tend to cling to others and form co-dependent relationships. (Incorrect. Individuals with schizotypal personality disorder fear that others will perceive them negatively and judge them, and therefore have social anxiety and avoid interpersonal interactions.)
- They must be the center of attention and seek constant approval from others to feel good about themself. (Incorrect. This statement would be true of an individual with histrionic personality disorder.)
- They experience unusual illusions, abnormal perceptions, and lack close relationships. (Correct! Schizotypal personality disorder is characterized by ideas of reference, strange beliefs, abnormal perceptual experiences, strange thinking and speech, and a lack of intimate relationships.)
A: They experience unusual illusions, abnormal perceptions, and lack close relationships.

Q: Shanta believes she possesses a sixth sense and therefore knows her coworkers have been talking about her behind her back. Even though they have confirmed that they do not talk about her, she holds onto her suspicions and goes home after work and writes down everything she picks up on from her telepathic abilities. Shanta is displaying characteristics of which personality disorder?
- paranoid personality disorder (Incorrect. Although an individual with this disorder will likely believe others are plotting against them or talking negatively about them, they do not believe they hold special abilities such as telepathy.)
- schizoid personality disorder (Incorrect. An individual with a schizoid personality will lack interest in forming relationships and would be indifferent to criticism or negative judgements made by others.)
- narcissistic personality disorder (Incorrect. Narcissistic personality disorder is classified by an individual believing they are better than others, and they hold a significant level of importance and should be treated specially by others.)
- schizotypal (Correct! Schizotypal personality disorder is characterized by strange beliefs including magical and telepathic thinking, as well as social isolation due to fears that others are judging or negatively perceiving her.)
A: schizotypal

Q: William is not a trustworthy person, as he has the tendency to lie and deceive others in order to manipulate them to do what he wants them to. William does not feel any guilt or remorse if he says or does something to hurt someone, and also has the tendency to violate the rights of others. William is displaying characteristics of
- histrionic personality disorder. (Incorrect. An individual with histrionic personality disorder is over-dramatic and seeks to be the center of attention. They tend to have inappropriately seductive behaviors and shallow emotions.)
- borderline personality disorder. (Incorrect. Although individuals with borderline personality tend to lie to others, they do not usually do so in order to gain pleasure or anything from them. They may feel bad about their actions and behaviors, but mostly have an unstable self-image and impulsive behaviors. They are characterized by chronic feelings of emptiness and fear of loneliness.)
- paranoid personality disorder. (Incorrect. This personality disorder is characterized by distrust and suspicion that others are against them and isolating due to a general fear of other people.)
- antisocial personality disorder. (Correct! An individual with antisocial personality disorder shows a complete disregard for the rights and safety of others, and often uses methods of manipulation and lies in order to get what they want.)
A: antisocial personality disorder.

Q: In order for a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder, which of the following criteria must first be met?
- The individual is at least 12 years old. (Incorrect. Although early signs may show antisocial personality, an individual has to be at least 18 years old for a diagnosis to be made. Often, children and adolescents who are diagnosed with conduct disorder progress to developing antisocial personality disorder.)
- The behaviors occur exclusively during bipolar episodes. (Incorrect. Diagnostic criteria states that these behaviors do not exclusively occur during schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.)
- The individual expresses feelings of overwhelming sense of guilt and remorse. (Incorrect. An individual diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder would not feel any sense of guilt or remorse, even if they do something to hurt someone else.)
- The individual is at least 18 years old. (Correct! Symptoms may occur in childhood or adolescence; however, an individual must be at least 18 years old in order for a diagnosis to be made.)
A: The individual is at least 18 years old.

Q: Men with antisocial personality disorder are more likely than women with the same diagnosis to
- run away from home and loved ones spontaneously overnight. (Incorrect. This is a behavior that women are more likely to perform than men, both with a diagnosis of antisocial personality.)
- lie frequently and forge things such as someone’s signature or approval. (Incorrect. This is a behavior that women are more likely to perform than men, both with a diagnosis of antisocial personality.)
- threaten, harass, or blackmail someone else in order to get what they want. (Incorrect. This is a behavior that women are more likely to perform than men, both with a diagnosis of antisocial personality.)
- perform behaviors that could easily hurt others or themselves. (Correct!)
A: perform behaviors that could easily hurt others or themselves.

Q: Which of the following descriptions of Kate most accurately reflects the characteristics of someone who has been diagnosed with histrionic personality?
- Kate often lies and manipulates others for her own pleasure or personal gain. She is impulsive, irresponsible, and lacks any feelings of remorse or guilt for hurting others. (Incorrect. These traits most accurately reflect antisocial personality disorder.)
- Kate views herself and her world in a negative way, often feeling hopeless, empty, and depressed. She tends to engage in impulsive, risky behaviors and has a severe fear of abandonment. (Incorrect. This description best describes an individual who has been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder.)
- Kate believes she is the most important and beautiful person, and should be treated specially because of it. She tends to be arrogant and takes advantage of others without feeling bad about it. (Incorrect. This description best describes an individual who has been diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder.)
- Kate is excessively dramatic and emotional, feeling uncomfortable if she is not the center of attention. She will even be seductive or provocative in order to gain attention. (Correct! These are traits of an individual who has a diagnosis of histrionic personality, including shallow emotions and vague and shifty speech.)
A: Kate is excessively dramatic and emotional, feeling uncomfortable if she is not the center of attention. She will even be seductive or provocative in order to gain attention.

Q: Individuals diagnosed with which personality disorder are typically seen as “the life of the party,” always making sure to be the center of attention even if it means they engage in provocative or inappropriate behaviors?
- borderline (Incorrect. An individual with borderline personality disorder will display more internally directed characteristics such as depression, lack of motivation, and dangerous behaviors.)
- dependent (Incorrect. Similar to histrionic personality, an individual with dependent personality will prefer to be around others, but they tend to be more inhibited and submissive as they are afraid of rejection. They would not be the one to seek the limelight or engage in inappropriate behaviors to gain attention.)
- narcissistic (Incorrect. An individual with narcissistic personality disorder prefers to be the center of attention, however it is specific to admiration from others, whereas an individual with histrionic personality disorder seeks any type of attention from others.)
- histrionic (Correct! Individuals with histrionic personality disorder need to be the center of attention and are often overly dramatic or emotionally expressive in order to remain in the limelight.)
A: histrionic

Q: Histrionic personality disorder is characterized by an individual being overly dramatic and emotional, engaging in erratic and impulsive behaviors and is part of which cluster of personality disorders?
- Cluster A (Incorrect. Cluster A personality disorders include those that are odd and eccentric, such as paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal.)
- Cluster C (Incorrect. Cluster C personality disorders are the anxious and fearful types, including avoidant, obsessive-compulsive, and dependent.)
- Cluster D (Incorrect. There is no Cluster D in the DSM-5 for personality disorders.)
- Cluster B (Correct! Personality disorders in Cluster B include those that are related to being impulsive, dramatic, emotional, and erratic and include histrionic, as well as borderline, narcissistic, and antisocial personality disorders.)
A: Cluster B

Q: An individual who displays an excessive need for admiration, a complete lack of empathy for others, and the belief they are superior to others and deserve special treatment would be diagnosed with which of the following personality disorders?
- antisocial (Incorrect. While an individual diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder will also lack regard for others and guilt for hurting or deceiving, they tend to engage in impulsive, dishonest, and violent behaviors and do not seek constant admiration.)
- borderline (Incorrect. An individual with borderline personality disorder is more likely to internalize their thoughts and emotions, which creates key characteristics of depression, emptiness, and impulsivity.)
- schizotypal (Incorrect. An individual diagnosed with schizotypal personality will display features of paranoia, strange interests, bizarre speech and thought, and a preoccupation with the magical or unseen world.)
- narcissistic (Correct! This personality disorder is characterized by a complete lack of regard for others, the constant need for attention and admiration, and the belief that one is superior and more important than others and should be treated as such.)
A: narcissistic

Q: Bryant loves to go out to parties so that he can show himself off to everyone. He spends several hours getting ready for the party to make sure he looks his absolute best. He expects free drinks, and everyone to compliment him and pay him attention at the party. He believes he is more important and intelligent than anyone else who will be there, and plans to boast about his latest work achievements all night. Bryant is likely diagnosed with which of the following?
- histrionic personality disorder (Incorrect. An individual with histrionic personality seeks to be the center of attention and tends to be over-dramatic and theatrical. They tend to engage in inappropriate and provocative behaviors, but do not have an overinflated sense of self-importance.)
- borderline personality disorder (Incorrect. An individual with borderline personality will have an unstable self-image, and an extreme fear of abandonment, engage in impulsive and potentially harmful behaviors, and have chronic feelings of emptiness.)
- antisocial personality disorder (Incorrect. Individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder will violate the rights and safety of others for their own personal gain or enjoyment. They lack empathy or feelings of remorse, and often engage in dangerous, harmful, and illegal behaviors.)
- narcissistic personality disorder (Correct! Bryant displays key features of narcissistic personality, including a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for excessive admiration, and a sense of entitlement.)
A: narcissistic personality disorder

Q: Which of the following statements best describes an individual diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder?
- They tend to put their needs and wants on hold to cater to those of others. (Incorrect. This is the exact opposite of what an individual with a narcissistic personality would do, as they believe they are more important than others and their needs should come first, and only.)
- They are excessively over-dramatic and inappropriately provocative in order to gain and maintain the center of attention. (Incorrect. While individuals diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder seek constant admiration from others and enjoy the limelight, they do not engage in theatrical and seductive means of gaining attention.)
- They are very harsh on themselves, and have a tendency to be self-damaging and impulsive in their actions. (Incorrect. These are key characteristics of someone diagnosed with borderline personality disorder.)
- They are sensitive to criticism and expect admiration and special treatment from others. (Correct! Narcissistic personality is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and the constant need for admiration from others.)
A: They are sensitive to criticism and expect admiration and special treatment from others.

Q: Patterns of an unstable self-image, intense and unpredictable emotional reactions, engaging in dangerous and risky behaviors, and pervasive feelings of emptiness and fear of abandonment are key characteristics of which personality disorder?
- antisocial (Incorrect. Individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder are characterized by their continual violation of the rights and safety of others, impulsive and deceitful behaviors and treatments of others, and a lack of remorse or guilt.)
- narcissistic (Incorrect. An individual with narcissistic personality disorder has an overinflated sense of self and believes they deserve special treatment and constant admiration from others.)
- avoidant (Incorrect. Individuals with avoidant personality display features of social inhibition, oversensitivity to negative judgement, and avoidance of relationships due to fears of criticism or rejection.)
- borderline (Correct! Along with inappropriate anger, and intense, unstable relationships with others, these are the key features of borderline personality disorder.)
A: borderline

Q: Jennyfer experiences chronic feelings of loneliness and emptiness. She spends most of her time home alone watching TV and drinking alcohol. Jennyfer has a tendency to then engage in risky or dangerous behaviors such as driving or spending money. She has trouble forming stable relationships and has a deep fear of abandonment. Jennyfer is displaying key characteristics of
- narcissistic personality disorder. (Incorrect. An individual with narcissistic personality would socialize frequently in order to use others for their personal gain, or receive admiration and attention that further inflates their sense of self-importance.)
- antisocial personality disorder. (Incorrect. An individual with this personality disorder would engage in behaviors that are harmful or unsafe to others, including physical violence and manipulation, as well as lack a sense of guilt or remorse.)
- schizotypal personality disorder. (Incorrect. Experiencing unusual illusions, abnormal perceptions, and lacking close relationships are key features of schizotypal personality.)
- borderline personality disorder. (Correct! Unstable sense of self, engaging in risky or dangerous behaviors, and chronic feelings of loneliness and emptiness are key characteristics of borderline personality. Additionally, the substance use and lack of motivation are also key components of this personality disorder.)
A: borderline personality disorder.

Q: Ryan engages in impulsive and risky behaviors. She frequently makes suicidal references and has a history of self-injurious behaviors. She experiences chronic feelings of emptiness and loneliness, which has led to an unstable sense of self and unhealthy relationships. Her behavior most closely reflects which of the following personality disorders?
- antisocial (Incorrect. An individual with this personality disorder would engage in behaviors that are harmful or unsafe to others, including physical violence and manipulation, as well as lack a sense of guilt or remorse.)
- avoidant (Individuals with avoidant personality display features of social inhibition, oversensitivity to negative judgement, and avoid relationships due to fears of criticism or rejection.)
- dependent (Incorrect. Dependent personality disorder is characterized by allowing others to make all of one’s decisions, a lack of self-confidence, and motivation to do anything on their own.)
- borderline (Correct! Unstable sense of self, engaging in risky or dangerous behaviors, and chronic feelings of loneliness and emptiness are key characteristics of borderline personality.)
A: borderline

Q: Which of the following examples describe the key characteristics of avoidant personality disorder?
- allows others to make their personal life decisions and has difficulty doing anything on their own (Incorrect. Along with a lack of self-confidence and fear of separation, this statement best describes a dependent personality.)
- preoccupation with details, rule, and order, spending excessive time making sure everything is perfect (Incorrect. These are key features of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.)
- irrational fear that others are plotting against them and trying to deceive or harm them in some way (Incorrect. This description accurately reflects the characteristics of a paranoid personality.)
- avoids socializing due to extreme sensitivity to negative evaluations and fears of criticism or rejection (Correct! Along with avoiding relationships and feeling inadequate to others, oversensitivity to negative judgements and fear of criticism or rejection are key traits of avoidant personality.)
A: avoids socializing due to extreme sensitivity to negative evaluations and fears of criticism or rejection

Q: Keisha wants to be able to form close relationships, as she enjoys others and their affection and acceptance. She is so fearful of rejection and negative criticism, however, that she does not try to form friendships. She tends to do her own thing, which follows a predictable and stable schedule. Which personality disorder is Keisha most likely to be diagnosed with?
- dependent (Incorrect. An individual diagnosed with dependent personality disorder would be dependent on others for all their decisions and seek constant social support.)
- histrionic (Incorrect. An individual diagnosed with histrionic personality disorder would seek to be the center of attention at all costs, even resorting to acting inappropriately in order for public admiration and praise.)
- borderline (Incorrect. An individual diagnosed with borderline personality disorder is likely to suffer from a fear of abandonment and engage in erratic and dangerous behaviors.)
- avoidant (Correct! The description of Keisha most closely reflects the key characteristics of an individual who is diagnosed with avoidant personality disorder.)
A: avoidant

Q: Avoidant personality disorder is classified under which cluster according to the DSM-5?
- Cluster A (Incorrect. Cluster A includes the odd or eccentric types such as paranoid and schizoid personality disorders.)
- Cluster B (Incorrect. Cluster B includes the dramatic, erratic, and emotional types such borderline and narcissistic personality disorders.)
- Cluster D (Incorrect. There is no Cluster D identified as a category of personality disorders in the DSM-5.)
- Cluster C (Correct! Avoidant, as well as dependent and obsessive-compulsive, are included in Cluster C, which involve personalities that appear to be anxious, fearful, or clingy.)
A: Cluster C

Q: Arielle can’t make a decision without consulting all her friends and family members first. She is overly reliant on their advice and support, making her come off as clingy and lacking self-confidence. Which personality disorder would Arielle most likely be diagnosed with?
- avoidant (Incorrect. Individuals diagnosed with avoidant personality disorder tend to withdraw from all social interactions due to a fear of being negatively judged or criticized.)
- borderline (Incorrect. An individual diagnosed with borderline personality disorder would engage in impulsive and potentially harmful behaviors, and feel an extreme sense of loneliness and emptiness.)
- antisocial (Incorrect. Individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder will lie and deceive others for their own personal gain, even if it means putting them in danger or harm. Additionally, they do not feel guilt or remorse for their actions.)
- dependent (Correct! Arielle shows the key features of dependent personality, including allowing others to take control over her life, and is unable to make decisions without doing so. She lacks self-confidence and tends to be clingy out of fear of being alone.)
A: dependent

Q: A diagnosis of dependent personality disorder can be made based on an individual displaying which of the following characteristics?
- social inhibition and lack of relationships due to fears of negative judgement and rejection from others (Incorrect. Along with oversensitivity to negative evaluations and feelings of inadequacy, this answer most accurately reflects an avoidant personality.)
- pervasive need to do everything perfectly with an extreme preoccupation with order, structure, and details (Incorrect. Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder is characterized by these traits, as well as inflexibility and unable to complete tasks due to preoccupation with perfectionism.)
- Experiences a deep fear of abandonment which manifests as loneliness and emptiness, leading to impulsive and dangerous behaviors. (Incorrect. This description most accurately reflects an individual who is diagnosed with borderline personality disorder.)
- allowing others to make their decisions for them, a lack of self-confidence, and the ability to do things on their own (Correct! These are key features of dependent personality disorder along with fear of separation and extreme clinginess.)
A: allowing others to make their decisions for them, a lack of self-confidence, and the ability to do things on their own

Q: Bianca is seen as an easy-going, but clingy person. She never disagrees with anyone and waits for other people to decide even the smallest things such as where to eat lunch. She has great difficulty initiating projects or doing things on her own, as she has very little confidence in herself. Bianca prefers to be around others, and feels very uncomfortable when she is alone. Which personality disorder would Bianca most likely be diagnosed with?
- borderline (Incorrect. An individual diagnosed with borderline personality disorder will display signs of hopelessness and emptiness; an unstable self-image; unstable relationships; and engage in impulsive, dangerous behaviors that are potentially harmful to themself.)
- avoidant (Incorrect. Unlike dependent personality, an individual with an avoidant personality will spend most of their time alone, not looking to interact with others or gain their opinion due to fears of rejection or criticism.)
- histrionic (Incorrect. An individual with histrionic personality disorder will seek the limelight and engage in dramatic and inappropriate behaviors just for attention. They tend to be shallow and have surface-level emotions and friendships.)
- dependent (Correct! Bianca displays most of the main features of dependent personality disorder, including the inability to make decisions for herself, allowing others to take responsibility, and feeling insecure and uncomfortable when alone.)
A: dependent

Q: Stephanie goes to work an hour early each day in order to organize and make sure everything is in place. Somehow, she still starts her work late due to her need for everything on her desk to be perfect. She doesn’t allow any of her coworkers to borrow anything from her desk, and creates a daily list of tasks that she neatly crosses out with a single line after completing. Stephanie’s characteristics most closely reflect those of which personality disorder?
- dependent (Incorrect. An individual with a dependent personality will be unable to make their own decisions, be clingy to others, and feel insecure about their own abilities and decisions.)
- avoidant (Incorrect. Avoidant personality is characterized by an extreme fear of judgement and criticism, which leads a person to avoid forming close relationships or being vulnerable in any way.)
- paranoid (Incorrect. An individual with a paranoid personality will believe others are conspiring against them, causing them to choose to be alone as they are suspicious and mistrustful of others.)
- obsessive-compulsive (Correct! Stephanie shows key features of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, as she has a preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control over her environment.)
A: obsessive-compulsive

Q: The pervasive and inflexible need for perfectionism that interferes with one’s ability to complete tasks, along with a preoccupation with details and structure are key features of
- dependent personality disorder. (Incorrect. An individual with a dependent personality will be unable to make their own decisions, be clingy to others, and feel insecure about their own abilities and decisions.)
- histrionic personality disorder. (Incorrect. An individual with a histrionic personality will seek to be the center of attention and engage in inappropriate behaviors to do so.)
- avoidant personality disorder. (Incorrect. Avoidant personality is characterized by an extreme fear of judgement and criticism, which leads a person to avoid forming close relationships or being vulnerable in any way.)
- obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. (Correct! Key traits of obsessive-compulsive personality disorder include a preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and rigid control over one’s environment.)
A: obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.

Q: Which of the following personality disorders is included in Cluster C, defined by anxious and fearful types?
- histrionic personality disorder (Incorrect. Histrionic personality is included in Cluster B, and involves the excessive need to be the center of attention and gain admiration from others.)
- paranoid personality disorder (Incorrect. Individuals with paranoid personality disorder will believe that others are conspiring against them, and would be classified in Cluster A.)
- antisocial personality disorder (Incorrect. Antisocial personality disorder is included in Cluster B, which is characterized by dramatic, emotional, or erratic types.)
- obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (Correct! An individual with obsessive-compulsive personality will have a preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and rigid control over their environment, which is categorized as an anxious or fearful type.)
A: obsessive-compulsive personality disorder

Q: The influence of life experiences such as trauma and abuse, as well as the parenting style in which one is raised, reflect which of the main theoretical perspectives on the development of personality disorders?
- biological (Incorrect. This perspective looks into how genetics and biological factors influence personality traits.)
- psychodynamic (Incorrect. This perspective proposes that events in early childhood, which mostly remain in our unconscious, impact our lives as we grow up and may cause significant problems to arise in personality.)
- cognitive (Incorrect. The cognitive perspective views personality disorders as arising from maladaptive and abnormal thought patterns and perceptions.)
- sociocultural (Correct! The sociocultural perspective views the development personality disorders being caused by significant life experiences such as trauma and abuse.)
A: sociocultural

Q: Which of the following statements explains the development of personality disorders according to the behavioral perspective?
- Significant life experiences such as trauma or abuse cause the development of personality disorders. (Incorrect. This statement represents the sociocultural perspective, which explains how life experiences factor into the development of personality disorders.)
- Genetic predispositions and specific genetic mechanisms lead to the development of certain personality traits, which can be classified as abnormal. (Incorrect. Genetic influence on personality disorders reflects the biological perspective in which our unique biological and genetic makeup accounts for our personality traits.)
- Unconscious factors such as early childhood experiences and hidden motivation lead to the development of personality disorders. (Incorrect. This describes the psychodynamic perspective, which proposes unconscious events play a role in our personality and the traits in which we develop and express.)
- Individuals learn to behave in certain ways and their personalities are shaped by environmental reinforcements and consequences. (Correct! This description accurately reflects the behavioral perspective, which attributes the development of personality disorders to external sources such as rewards, feedback, and modeling.)
A: Individuals learn to behave in certain ways and their personalities are shaped by environmental reinforcements and consequences.

Q: Disordered patterns of perceiving and relating to the world may develop as a means of protection during childhood and reflects which of the following theoretical perspectives of personality disorders?
- biological (Incorrect. The biological perspective focuses on the role of genetics and individual biology to explain the development of personality disorders.)
- psychodynamic (Incorrect. The psychodynamic perspective states that unconscious drives and early childhood experience are the driving influence behind the development of personality disorders.)
- sociocultural (Incorrect. The sociocultural perspective views the development of personality disorders as the direct result of an individual’s interaction with their external environment such as the influence of social interactions, and significant trauma or abuse.)
- cognitive (Correct! The cognitive perspective views the development of personality disorders as a result from faulty, or disordered patterns of thinking and perceiving.)
A: cognitive

Q: Which of the following treatments, based on patient response and improvement, is recommended for individuals who have been diagnosed with a personality disorder in Cluster A?
- implementing psychotherapy sessions (Incorrect. Individuals in Cluster A tend to respond poorly to psychosocial treatments, including supportive psychotherapy, due to a lack of trust in the therapist.)
- the use of antidepressant medications (Incorrect. Individuals diagnosed with a personality disorder in Cluster B would best respond to antidepressants or mood stabilizers.)
- implementing group therapy sessions (Incorrect. Similarly to psychotherapy sessions, or individualized therapy, group therapy would produce similar results and poor effectiveness in treating individuals with a personality disorder in Cluster A.)
- the use of antipsychotic medications (Correct! Based on response to biological treatments, individuals in Cluster A, specifically schizotypal patients, may best respond to and improve from the use of antipsychotic medications.)
A: the use of antipsychotic medications

Q: What is the biggest challenge in treating personality disorders, such as for those diagnosed with antisocial, narcissistic, or paranoid personality disorder?
- The use of psychiatric substances is never effective, so the only possible means of treatment is psychotherapy and psychosocial interventions. (Incorrect. This is incorrect, as there are several personality disorders that are treated with psychoactive substances, such as antipsychotics, which are commonly used together with psychosocial means.)
- The individual is so out of touch with reality from their hallucinations and delusions that they are unable to have meaningful and productive interactions, making any type of treatment plan difficult. (Incorrect. This description best describes an individual diagnosed with schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder. Although they share features with an individual diagnosed with a personality disorder in Cluster A, it is possible for these individuals to have productive conversations and effective treatments.)
- Very little treatment plans exist for individuals with personality disorders, so they do not believe there is anything out there to help them, making them resistant and avoidant to getting help. (Incorrect. Although personality disorders are some of the hardest mental health issues to treat, there exist many different types of treatments, therapies, and professionals who are equipped to help.)
- They rarely seek treatment due to their ego-syntonic nature of feeling comfortable with themselves and believing there is nothing wrong with them and that others should change their behaviors and attitudes. (Correct! One of the greatest difficulties in treating personality disorders is actually having an individual seek or be open to receiving treatment.)
A: They rarely seek treatment due to their ego-syntonic nature of feeling comfortable with themselves and believing there is nothing wrong with them and that others should change their behaviors and attitudes.

Q: Based on empirical evidence and scientific research studies, which of the following treatment protocols has specifically been developed to treat borderline personality disorder?
- cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) (Incorrect. DBT is a form of CBT; however, cognitive-behavioral therapy is a general category of therapies with many different forms of treatment and is used for a wide range of mental health disorders.)
- psychiatric medications (Incorrect. Although borderline personality disorder may be treated with psychiatric medications, they were not created and are not used exclusively for borderline.)
- group therapy for personality dysfunction (Incorrect. This modality of treatment is used for other personality disorders aside from borderline.)
- dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) (Correct! Drawing on principles from Zen Buddhism, dialectical philosophy, and behavioral sciences, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) has been designed to treat borderline personality disorder.)
A: dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)

Q: Derrick’s colleagues eat lunch together in the office and organize weekend barbecues and game nights. He chooses to eat alone, and does not go to any of the weekend events, despite being invited to each of them. It’s not that he doesn’t want to make friends in his office, because he does. He is just so afraid of being rejected by them that he avoids socializing all together. Derrick would most likely be diagnosed with
- dependent personality disorder. (Incorrect. Dependent personality disorder is characterized by allowing others to make all of one’s decisions, a lack of self-confidence, and motivation to do anything on their own.)
- antisocial personality disorder. (Incorrect. An individual diagnosed with this disorder would violate the laws and rights of others, and lack any remorse or guilt when lying to or deceiving others.)
- paranoid personality disorder. (Incorrect. Paranoid personality disorder is characterized by an individual believing others are against them and out to get them, even when lacking evidence or having proof that this is not the case. An individual with a paranoid personality may avoid socializing with others out of fear that they are plotting against them, rather than a fear of rejection or criticism as seen with individuals diagnosed with avoidant personality.)
- avoidant personality disorder. (Correct! Derrick would be diagnosed with avoidant personality disorder, as he wants to socialize and make friends, but he avoids doing so out of a debilitating fear of being rejected or negatively judged by his peers.)
A: avoidant personality disorder.

Q: Struggling with chronic depression and feelings of emptiness, Raven has recently been hospitlaized for attempted suicide. She feels that she is worthless and fears that all her loved ones will leave her all alone. She has trouble defining herself, as her moods are erratic and behaviors impulsive. Raven is most likely struggling with which of the following personality disorders?
- avoidant (Individuals with avoidant personality display features of social inhibition, oversensitivity to negative judgement, and avoid relationships due to fears of criticism or rejection.)
- dependent (Incorrect. Dependent personality disorder is characterized by allowing others to make all of one’s decisions, a lack of self-confidence, and motivation to do anything on their own.)
- paranoid (Incorrect. Paranoid personality is characterized by a pervasive pattern of suspiciousness and mistrust in others, easily takes offense and holds grudges, and refuses intimate relationships with others.)
- borderline (Correct! The key characteristics Raven shows, such as an unstable image of self, suicidality, feelings of emptiness, and fear of abandonment, are key features of borderline personality disorder.)
A: borderline

Q: Although he tries a little to socialize and fit in, Oliver has always been seen by others as different. He believes he is able to communicate with spirits and dead loved ones through his sixth sense. When he talks with others, they tend to be confused and have trouble following what he is saying. Oliver is most likely to be diagnosed with which personality disorder?
- antisocial (Incorrect. An individual with an antisocial personality will violate the rights and safety of others while showing no guilt or remorse for their actions.)
- histrionic (Incorrect. Histrionic personality is defined by a constant need for attention and engagement in shallow, superficial, and inappropriate behaviors to maintain the spotlight.)
- schizoid (Incorrect. An individual with a schizoid personality has no interest in forming relationships and will spend most of their time alone.)
- schizotypal (Correct! Schizotypal personality disorder is characterized by ideas of reference, strange beliefs, abnormal perceptual experiences, strange thinking and speech, and a lack of intimate relationships.)
A: schizotypal