Personality disorders as defined by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) are “long-term patterns of behavior and inner experiences that differ significantly from what is expected.” The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) lists ten standalone personality disorders and based on similar characteristics, each personality disorder is grouped into one of three categories (cluster A, cluster B, and cluster C). Paranoid personality disorder (PPD) belongs to cluster A, which according to the Mayo Clinic is “characterized by odd, eccentric thinking or behavior.” More specifically, the Merck Manual explains that paranoid personality disorder is characterized “by a pervasive pattern of unwarranted distrust and suspicion of others that involves interpreting their motives as malicious.” The Cleveland Clinic refers to studies that estimate PPD affects between 2.3% and 4.4% of the general population, and it is thought to be more common among men. There is no single test that is used to diagnose paranoid personality disorder. The diagnosis process is informed by the symptoms of PPD and integrates the presence of symptoms as is outlined in its diagnostic criteria.
There are several different signs and symptoms related to paranoid personality disorder. The symptoms of PPD essentially prohibit a teen from confiding in others, which in turn prevents them from developing close, meaningful relationships. The Mayo Clinic provides examples of symptoms associated with PPD, some of which include:
The reason behind why a young person develops paranoid personality disorder remains unknown, but research has indicated that it is likely linked to a combination of environmental and biological factors. While there is no cure for PPD, as it is a chronic condition, with proper treatment a teen can learn to effectively manage the symptoms of paranoid personality disorder.
Every family in need of mental health treatment must select a program that will best suit the needs of their family. When one member of a family struggles, it impacts everyone in the family unit. To maximize the benefits of treatment we work closely with the entire family to ensure that everyone is receiving the support they need through these difficult times.
Seeking help is never easy, but you are not alone! If you or someone you know needs mental health treatment, we strongly encourage you to reach out for help as quickly as possible. It is not uncommon for many mental health difficulties to impact a person’s life in, long term. Pursuing support at the beginning of one’s journey can put the individual in the best position to learn how to manage themselves in a healthy way so they can go on to live happy and fulfilling lives.
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PTT provides treatment for the contemporary issues facing teenagers in today’s world utilizing a family focused and collaborative approach providing individualized care for teens and their families. Licensed by the State of California, Community Care Licensing Division #198209636
At a time when most residential programs are affiliated with large healthcare corporations or backed by private equity, Pacific Teen Treatment is proudly a private, family-owned operation.
