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Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) is a disorder that is characterized by an overwhelming and excessive need to be taken care of by someone else. The result is unhealthy relationships where the person with DPD clings to the other party, fears being alone, and will quickly seek out another relationship when one ends.
People with DPD are afraid of being alone. They
feel that they are incapable of taking care of themselves.
As a result,
people with this disorder often put themselves in relationships where
the other person makes major decisions for them or is abusive. People
with DPD lack self-confidence and have problems starting new projects
or doing things because they feel they will not be able to perform.
They seek reassurance on a regular basis and are often preoccupied by
fears about being alone. When criticized, even mildly, they take it
very personally and are often hurt deeply by the comments. They may
become suicidal. All of these factors combine, making it difficult for
someone with DPD to function.
Because people with DPD fear being alone, they will often use a variety
of tactics in order to stay in a relationship. They will often be
submissive to the other person, agree when they don't, and may act in
ways that are self-destructive, such as staying in abusive situation or
meeting unreasonable demands. Their intense fear of living on their own
in what they view as a cold and hostile world leads them to act in
these ways.
Despite their need to be in a relationship, people with DPD are often
emotionally unattached to the other person. When a relationship appears
to be ending they will engage in excessive behavior to keep the
relationship; however, when it ends, they are quick to move on to
another person.
Treatment for DPD can be difficult. Medication may be used as well as behavioral therapy.
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By:Tina Posted: Jun 20 2006 06:23:36 AM