cluster B personality disorder

Introduction

Axis 1: cluster B: dramatic, emotional or erratic behaviors

Classification

• antisocial personality disorder
• borderline personality disorder
• histrionic personality disorder
• narcissistic personality disorder

Clinical manifestations

• manifestations must have been present since young adulthood to meet criteria for personality disorder

Management

• assess for & treat underlying mental illness
  • depression
  • emotional lability
  • anxiety disorder
  • substance abuse
• use a consistent, structured & predictable approach
  • establish boundaries to minimize disruptive behavior
• use a team approach with a common plan
• use behavioral contracts & authority figures when necessary to contral disruptive behaviors
• do not take belligerent behaviors personally
  • provide opportunities for staff to discuss frustration & negative thoughts & emotions with colleagues

More general terms

• personality disorder

More specific terms

• antisocial personality disorder
• borderline personality disorder
• histrionic personality disorder
• narcissistic personality disorder