When Personality Goes Awry

A personality disorder is one in which the pattern of behavior differs markedly from the norm of expected behavior and experiences. It is characterized by an inflexible and enduring pattern of inner experience and outward behavior that impairs an individual personally, socially, emotionally, and interpersonally. Since personality traits (combined inherited characteristics and learned responses) are learned and reinforced in childhood, personality disorders are likely have their origins in childhood, but they continue into adulthood. The end result is that such traits culminate in a diagnosis of personality disorder after the individual turns 18.

After reading the American Psychological Association Monitor article “Where Personality Goes Awry,” consider the question(s) below. Then “submit” your response.

Question 1

Krueger’s 2002 study of 128 twin pairs found which of the following about personality traits?

A.
B.
C.
D.

Question 2

Children with documented instances of childhood abuse or neglect were more than _________as likely to develop a personality disorder (PD) in early adulthood.

A.
B.
C.
D.

Question 3

Describe the Collaborative Longitudinal Personality Disorders Study (CLPS).

One possible answer might be as follows: the CLPS examined personality disorders (PD) in over 668 people diagnosed with avoidant PD, borderline PD, obsessive-compulsive PD, and schizotypal PD. The study investigated characteristics, stability, and progression in the study participants from 1996 to 2005.

Question 4

How do one's peers play a role in personality?

One possible answer might be that healthy peer relationships may be a protective factor against an individual developing a personality disorder.