| Prevalence |
Researchers estimate that up to 14% of Americans will have at least one personality disorder over the course of their lives (Grant, Hasin, et al., 2004; Lenzenweger, 2006). |
| Comorbidity |
Up to 75% of those with a personality disorder will also be diagnosed with another type of psychological disorder (Dolan-Sewell et al., 2001; Lenzenweger, 2006). Common comorbid disorders are mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders (Grant, Stinson et al., 2004; Johnson et al., 2006b; Lenzenweger, 2006). Approximately 50% of people with a personality disorder will be diagnosed with at least one other personality disorder (Skodol, 2005). |
| Onset |
The DSM-5 diagnostic criteria require that symptoms are present by young adulthood. For one personality disorder—antisocial personality disorder—a diagnostic criterion requires that symptoms are present before age 15. |
| Course |
Symptoms of personality disorders are often relatively stable, but they may fluctuate or improve as people go through adulthood. |
| Gender Differences |
Specific personality disorders have gender differences in prevalence, but there is no such difference across all personality disorders. |
| Source: Unless otherwise noted, American Psychiatric Association, 2000. |