Personality and Mood Disorders Q 20

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Which of the following types of behavior is expected from a client diagnosed with a paranoid personality disorder?

  

     A. Eccentric

     B. Exploitative

     C. Hypersensitive

     D. Seductive

    

    

Correct Answer: C. Hypersensitive

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People with paranoid personality disorders are hypersensitive to perceived threats. While this mistrust is unfounded, their distrust of others makes it difficult to form relationships and can interfere with many aspects of life including at home, at school, and at work. People with PPD do not see their behaviors as out of the ordinary but are perceived by others as hostile and suspicious.

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Option A: Schizotypal personalities appear eccentric and engage in activities others find perplexing. Schizotypal personality disorder is marked by a pervasive pattern of social and interpersonal deficits. Individuals with schizotypal personality disorder have little capacity—and perhaps even need—for close relationships.

Option B: Clients with narcissistic personality disorder are interpersonally exploitative to enhance themselves or indulge in their own desires. Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is an enduring pattern of inner experience and behavior characterized by self-centeredness, lack of empathy, and an exaggerated sense of self-importance.

Option D: A client with a histrionic personality disorder can be extremely seductive when in search of stimulation and approval. Histrionic personality disorder, or dramatic personality disorder, is a psychiatric disorder distinguished by a pattern of exaggerated emotionality and attention-seeking behaviors. Histrionic personality disorder falls within the “Cluster B” of personality disorders.

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