Dependent Personality Disorder

Individuals who suffer from the chronic condition of "dependent personality disorder" or "DPD", have an abnormally strong dependence on others to meet their emotional and physical needs. These individuals are unable to make small or large decisions for on their own and need constant reassurance as well as approval from others.

It is very common for individuals with this disorder to be submissive to the point of staying in a relationship where they are abused or mistreated. DPD is one of the most common forms of anxious personality disorder diagnosed today and affects both women and men equally.

Common Characteristics of a Dependent Personality Disorder

The primary symptom of a dependent personality disorder is that of an emotional dependence on others with the inability to trust their own decisions. These individuals typically tend to rely heavily on one person to make even the smallest decisions in their everyday life and have a great fear of separation or abandonment.

They are devastated if a relationship ends and tend to start another one right away out of fear of being alone. There fear of separation is so great that they will stay in a relationship even if they are being abused or mistreated. They are unable to work independently or take a job with a position of responsibility.

Individuals with DPD also lack self esteem as well as confidence and are overly sensitive when it comes to criticism. They will put the needs of other individuals - particularly their caregiver - ahead of their own and avoid voicing any opinion that is in disagreement of others for fear of their disapproval or losing their support. 

Individuals with DPD are also very susceptible to depression, substance abuse, and physical or sexual abuse as they will do anything to remain in a relationship with a caregiver.

Causes and Treatment Methods for Dependent Personality Disorder

While the cause of DPD is essentially unknown, medical experts believe it is most likely a combination of environmental and biological factors. Some experts also believe that individuals who are susceptible to developing an anxiety disorder and were raised by extremely strict or overprotective parents are at a higher risk for developing a dependent personality disorder.

When receiving treatment for DPD, they will often have a hard time with the therapy which is given to teach them the skills of how to be independent because they have a fear of being criticized when making independent decisions.

Individuals with DPD rarely seek help for their disorder until another condition arises from their problem that they can no longer cope with such as depression or severe anxiety. The primary form of treatment for DPD is therapy or counseling which teaches them the skills needed to have a healthy relationship and be independent.

The therapy is typically done on a short term basis so as to avoid the individual becoming dependent upon the therapist. Sometimes medication is prescribed if the individual has an underlying condition such as another form of anxiety or depression.