Personality Disorder

Term Paper # 55697

Psychology
Psychology > Disorders
Psychology > Theory

What is personality disorder and do psychologists have a good understanding of it? Differences in aetiology and psychological explanations of different disorders.

2,471 words () | 10 sources | MLA | 2004 United Kingdom

Paper Summary:

This essay outlines the different syndromes under the personality disorder umbrella as classified by the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM IV). It examines the diagnostic problems that are commonly encountered because of the confusing and overlapping aetiology. It also mentions how the classification system reinforces of gender stereotypes. The causation of personality theories, including trait theories (e.g. Eynsenck), psychoanalytic models, and psychobiology, is then analyzed, and the relationship of these theories to specific disorders is discussed.

From the Paper:

"The word personality refers to the, "dynamic organization, inside the person, of psychological systems that create the person's characteristic patterns of behavior, thoughts and feelings" (Allport, 1961, cited in Carver and Scheier, 2004, p.5). People tend to behave in relatively predictable ways, yet personality also develops as a response to environment and change. Most people are able to learn from past experiences and adapt their personalities accordingly. A functional personality is therefore one that is both predictable and flexible to adaptation in accordance with societal rules."