Which of the following is a Cluster C personality disorder?

Which of the following is a Cluster C personality disorder?

• A. Histrionic
• B. Avoidant
• C. Narcissistic
• D. Borderline

Answer: (B)

Cluster C includes the anxious and fearful personality patterns, with avoidance and sensitivity to rejection being typical features. Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by social inhibition, feelings of personal inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation, which leads to avoiding close relationships and social situations despite a desire for connection. This fits the Cluster C profile of anxiousness and fearfulness. The other disorders listed belong to a different cluster. Histrionic personality disorder involves excessive emotionality and a need for attention, which is a hallmark of the dramatic/erratic Cluster B. Narcissistic personality disorder centers on grandiosity and a constant need for admiration, also a Cluster B trait. Borderline personality disorder features unstable relationships, mood instability, and impulsivity, another example of Cluster B.

Cluster C includes the anxious and fearful personality patterns, with avoidance and sensitivity to rejection being typical features. Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by social inhibition, feelings of personal inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation, which leads to avoiding close relationships and social situations despite a desire for connection. This fits the Cluster C profile of anxiousness and fearfulness.

The other disorders listed belong to a different cluster. Histrionic personality disorder involves excessive emotionality and a need for attention, which is a hallmark of the dramatic/erratic Cluster B. Narcissistic personality disorder centers on grandiosity and a constant need for admiration, also a Cluster B trait. Borderline personality disorder features unstable relationships, mood instability, and impulsivity, another example of Cluster B.