Personality Disorder (PDO): Recognize three myths about it

Personality disorders are psychological disorders that are often a scourge in society. Almost 200 years ago, scientists began to pay attention to this disorder. Over time, a majority of scientists now emphasize the influence of genetic elements and so-called early relational complications.

Often abbreviated as PDO, this is a typical psychological disorder that, although common in society, often creates false myths. The sufferers are usually associated with hyperbolic and aggressive behavior. They are so easily recognizable that they are considered the “sole representative” of this disorder. An assumption that is completely wrong because personality disorder has a broad spectrum. Some sufferers are difficult to identify, even by experts.

But despite the myths and stigmas, PDO causes a decline in the psychological condition of the sufferer. This decline is real and responsible for the reduction in the quality of social relations in many cases. Many people agree that personality disorders cannot be treated, and their effects can only be minimized. Departing from the “deal,” the harmful myths about PDO have been preserved for years. As a result, sufferers are often seen as “crazy,” something completely different from a medical point of view.

Here are three myths related to PDO that, by knowing, you can prevent unfair treatment for sufferers:

1. The cause of PDO is unknown

Many articles continue to echo the irresponsible statements, “Scientists still haven’t found the cause of PDO.” This is a false statement because it seems like this disorder presents itself randomly. This assumption “hands down unfounded verdicts” on sufferers, as if they are “cursed people” who must be shunned because they can never truly recover. There is always hope that someday scientists will discover how to repair the brain’s neural network (which is thought to be responsible for a person’s sanity). An assumption that continues to be addressed with a pessimistic attitude. Many people mistakenly assume that there is always one universal cause. But recent studies reveal that the situation is much more complicated than that.

2. There is no record of any recovered patients

This is the second myth. Fortunately, there are many records of healing from PDO. The oldest records can be traced back to classical Victorian times. Anyone curious about the records can read a thorough synopsis found at Millon regarding the success of the early practitioners who worked on PDO. Perhaps the two most important modern studies are those of Stuart Yudofsky (2005) and Nancy McWilliams (2013). They discuss medical science-based PDO therapies and how they can cure a group of sufferers.

3. PDO is synonymous with moodiness and hyperbole

Many doctors misdiagnose PDO. They think that PDO is only associated with dramatic and moody behavior. Not completely wrong, but certainly not 100% correct. Psychologists often focus solely on reducing the detrimental effects of PDO instead of knowing what causes the disorder. By focusing on the cause, they should be able to determine the therapy with the higher success rate. They can also lead patients to adopt new lifestyles that are likely to lead to good long-term outcomes. One important fact about PDO is that it affects far more people than we think. They may be part of our family and best friends, and we may be part of them. If your or your loved one is struggling, reach out to us at Advantage Mental Health Center in Clearwater, FL, for information on how we can help you.

By getting rid of the myths above, we are at least one step ahead in understanding this psychological disorder. And with more advanced understanding, we will be more advanced in our efforts to overcome it.