Sometimes, everyone is sensitive to criticism and wants to be accepted and liked by others. It is a long-standing pattern of behaviors that cause distress and sometimes make it difficult for someone to work and maintain relationships. A chronic feeling of inadequacy and an increased level of hypersensitivity could be indicative of avoidant personality disorder (AVPD).
Erin Rayburn, LMFT, mental health treatment strategist, said, “Personality disorders are about the construct of how a person makes their way in the world and relates to the world around them, including relationships and their mentality about the world.”
Image Credit: Shutterstock/Dmytro Zinkevych
How Does Avoidant Personality Disorder Work?
Amira Johnson, LMSW at Berman Psychotherapy, says AVPD comprises feelings of inadequacy, social inhibition, and rejection sensitivity. She said, “Those with this disorder may show shyness or sensitivity to criticism from others. It can be associated with anxiety disorders, mainly social anxiety.”
Cleveland Clinic lists the following symptoms of AVPD:
- The desire to be liked by others
- Being anxious in social situations
- Confronting conflict with caution
- Excessive self-consciousness
- Being overly sensitive to criticism or disapproval
The Relationships With People With Avoidant Personality Disorder?
A personality disorder is characterized by difficulty with interpersonal relationships. Relationships with those who suffer from AVPD might feel like your partner avoids you physically and emotionally. She said, “So, somebody on the receiving end of this might feel like they’re avoiding you, or they don’t want to engage, or you’re being blown off or ghosted.”
Many people with AVPD avoid relationships, even if they want to, because of ridicule and low self-confidence. AVPD patients may not be emotionally available and prevent conflict. If the person gets hurt, they may distance themselves.
Image Credit: Shutterstock/Kaewmanee jiangsihui
Is Avoidant Personality Disorder Treatable?
In 2019, researchers found that therapeutic alliances are even more crucial for clients with an avoidant personality disorder. Researchers said, “The therapeutic relationship provides an opportunity for persons diagnosed with AVPD to experience being met with acceptance and understanding.” Rayburn says that people with AVPD often have difficulty seeking therapy since therapy involves talking about feelings. The therapist may help with AVPD by addressing the source of the feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.