Avoidant Personality Disorder

Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by pervasive social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation. Etiology involves a combination of genetic predisposition, temperament factors, and early adverse interpersonal experiences. Clinically, patients exhibit avoidance of social interactions, fear of rejection, and reluctance to engage in occupational or personal opportunities due to anticipated criticism. Diagnosis is based on long-term behavioral patterns and exclusion of social anxiety disorder or other personality disorders. Management includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, social skills training, and supportive psychotherapy, with pharmacotherapy targeting comorbid anxiety or depressive symptoms. Prognosis is variable but improves with consistent therapeutic intervention.