Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) is a type of personality disorder characterized by a pervasive psychological dependence on other people. People with DPD often feel helpless, submissive, and incapable of taking care of themselves. They have an overwhelming need to have others take care of them and rely on people close to them for their emotional or physical needs. They may have trouble making everyday decisions, such as what to wear, without others’ reassurance. Some common symptoms of DPD include:
- Difficulty making decisions without the input or presence of others
- Being overly passive or submissive
- Allowing or preferring other people to handle personal business
- Extreme fear of abandonment, especially by loved ones
- Intense sadness and lethargy when a loved one leaves or after a breakup
- A willingness to do anything in your power, including putting up with abuse or mistreatment or doing dangerous or illegal things, to please a valued person or keep them near you
- Having trouble starting projects or doing things alone
- Constantly seeking relationships and cultivating them to avoid being alone, no matter how unhealthy the relationship may be
The exact cause of DPD is unknown, but it is believed to result from a mix of genetics, environment, and development. Risk factors that might contribute to the development of this disorder include a history of neglect and an abusive upbringing, overprotective or authoritarian parents, and a family history of anxiety disorder. A psychiatrist or psychologist usually diagnoses DPD by taking into account the patients symptoms, history, and mental state. Treatment for DPD typically involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or psychodynamic psychotherapy, and medication for depression or anxiety if necessary. Early treatment can prevent many complications from developing, such as anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse, and phobias.
