Personality disorders are conditions in which rigid, dysfunctional patterns of thought and behavior cause persistent problems relating to others and fitting in with society.
They typically emerge in adolescence and continue into adulthood. Personality disorders fall into three main groups. The first comprises paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal personalities.
People in this group have patterns of behavior and thinking that most would see as eccentric or odd. The second group consists of antisocial, histrionic, narcissistic, or borderline personality types. This group is typified by emotional, impulsive, attention-seeking, or self-centered behavior.
The third group comprises avoidant, dependent, or obsessive- compulsive personalities. People in this group have anxious, fearful, or inhibited patterns of thinking and behavior.
Treatment usually involves psychotherapy and support to help the person adapt his or her behavior and function successfully. The outlook is variable, although generally the manifestations of a dysfunctional personality diminish with age.