Definition of ” AVOIDANT DISORDER “
Avoidant disorder, also known as avoidant personality disorder, is a psychological condition characterized by a pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation. Individuals with avoidant disorder tend to avoid social interactions and relationships, often due to a fear of rejection or criticism. They may also have low self-esteem and struggle with forming close relationships. This disorder can significantly impact one’s daily functioning and overall quality of life. Treatment typically involves therapy and medication to address underlying issues and improve social skills.
The “AVOIDANT DISORDER” in a sentence:
1. “John exhibits symptoms of Avoidant Disorder as he consistently avoids social situations and interactions due to his fear of rejection and criticism.”
2. “Individuals with Avoidant Disorder often struggle with forming and maintaining relationships, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.”
The Etymology of “AVOIDANT DISORDER”:
The term “avoidant disorder” is derived from the Latin word “avoidare” which means to avoid or shun. The word “disorder” comes from the Old French word “desordre” meaning confusion or disturbance. When combined, the term refers to a psychological disorder characterized by persistent avoidance of social interaction and feelings of inadequacy.
The term was first used in the early 1970s by American psychiatrist Theodore Millon, who described the disorder as a type of personality disorder. He believed that individuals with this disorder have a deep-seated fear of rejection and criticism, leading them to avoid social situations and interpersonal relationships.
In the 1980s, the term “avoidant personality disorder” was officially recognized by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). It was classified as a Cluster C personality disorder, along with dependent and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders.
Since then, the term has evolved to “avoidant disorder” to more accurately reflect the symptoms and behaviors associated with the condition. It is also now categorized as a type of anxiety disorder rather than a personality disorder, as it is believed to stem from underlying feelings of anxiety and fear.
Overall, the term “avoidant disorder” describes a pattern of behavior and thought that is characterized by avoidance, fear, and feelings of inadequacy. It continues to be an important term in the field of psychology, helping to identify and understand individuals who struggle with this debilitating disorder.
The First Known Use of “AVOIDANT DISORDER”:
The term “avoidant disorder” was first used in the field of psychology in the late 1970s.
Description of ” AVOIDANT DISORDER “
Avoidant disorder, also known as avoidant personality disorder (APD), is a psychological condition characterized by a pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and sensitivity to rejection. It is considered a type of personality disorder and can significantly impact an individual’s ability to form and maintain relationships, as well as their overall quality of life. Individuals with avoidant disorder often experience intense fear and anxiety in social situations, leading them to avoid interactions and isolate themselves from others.
The symptoms of avoidant disorder typically manifest during early adulthood and can be traced back to childhood experiences. It is believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and developmental factors contribute to the development of this disorder. People with avoidant disorder may also have co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. Despite the challenges it presents, with proper treatment and support, individuals with avoidant disorder can learn to manage their symptoms and improve their social functioning.
Farther Reading about ” AVOIDANT DISORDER “
1. Alden, L. E., & Taylor, C. T. (2018). Avoidant personality disorder: Current status and future directions. Journal of personality disorders, 32(4), 490-515.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of avoidant personality disorder (AVPD), including its symptoms, prevalence, and theoretical models. It also discusses the current diagnostic criteria and potential treatment options for AVPD. The authors review recent research on the disorder, highlighting areas for future investigation.
2. Lampe, L., & Malhi, G. S. (2019). Avoidant personality disorder: Current insights. Psychology research and behavior management, 12, 117-125.
This review article provides a comprehensive overview of avoidant personality disorder, covering its epidemiology, etiology, and treatment. It also discusses the overlap with other disorders, such as social anxiety disorder, and the challenges in diagnosing and treating AVPD. The authors also propose a framework for understanding and treating AVPD based on cognitive-behavioral therapy principles.
Source: PSYCHOLOGY