Causes and risk factors
The exact cause is unknown; it is believed to be caused due to interplay of biological, social, genetic and psychological factors. People with avoidant personality disorder experience a long-standing feeling of inadequacy and are extremely sensitive to what others think about them. This leads to the person to be socially withdrawn. Because of these feelings, the person with avoidant personality disorder will try to avoid work, school, or any activities that involve socializing or interacting with others. It is equal in males and females.
Clinical presentation
Person with avoidant personality disorder avoids occupational activities that involve significant interpersonal contact because of fears of criticism, disapproval, or rejection. He/she is unwilling to get involved with people unless they are certain of being liked by others. They show restraint within intimate relationships because of the fear of being shamed or ridiculed. The person is preoccupied with being criticized or rejected in social situations. He/she can inhibit in new interpersonal situations because of feelings of inadequacy. He/she views self as socially inept, personally unappealing, or inferior to others. He/she is unusually reluctant to take personal risks or to engage in any new activities because they may prove embarrassing.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the psychiatrist helps in diagnosis on the basis of the individual’s personality traits. No laboratory testing is necessary for diagnosing this disease.
Treatment
Main treatment consists of psychotherapy and counseling which involves cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches techniques to combat the problem. Individual and family therapy, social interaction techniques, social involvement will help in treating the condition.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating avoidant personality disorder. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly, the Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating avoidant personality disorder.
