Paranoid Personality Disorder

Note: The use of the term paranoia in this context is not meant to refer to the presence of frank delusions or psychosis, but implies the presence of ongoing, un-based suspiciousness and distrust of people.

DSM-IV Criteria

A. A pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others such that their motives are interpreted as malevolent, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by four (or more) of the following:

1. suspects, without sufficient basis, that others are exploiting, harming, or deceiving him or her

2. is preoccupied with unjustified doubts about the loyalty or trustworthiness of friends or associates

3. is reluctant to confide in others because of unwarranted fear that the information will be used maliciously against him or her

4. reads hidden demeaning or threatening meanings into benign remarks or events

5. persistently bears grudges, i.e., is unforgiving of insults, injuries, or slights

6. perceives attacks on his or her character or reputation that are not apparent to others and is quick to react angrily or to counterattack

7. has recurrent suspicions, without justification, regarding fidelity of spouse or sexual partner

B. Does not occur exclusively during the course of Schizophrenia, a Mood Disorder With Psychotic Features, or another Psychotic Disorder and is not due to the direct physiological effects of a general medical condition.

Note: If criteria are met prior to the onset of Schizophrenia, add "Premorbid," e.g., "Paranoid Personality Disorder (Premorbid)."

Possible Causes: Since this illness is not induced (via a drug or any other substance), or genetic, the cause is actually the way in which the person with the illness thinks. They tend to think in hierarchy: who controls the power. They want to know who has the power in any given situation. They tend to drive people away from them, and thus have few friends, proving to themselves even more that there is a conspiracy afoot against them. This leads them to have a very lonely life.

Treatment Options: Unless the symptoms of this disorder become so debilitating for the person that he/she truly cannot function as a human being, then treatment is often times not used because the treatment of Paranoid Personality Disorder is very difficult. This is because the person with the illness is usually extremely suspicious of the therapist or any other medical professional. A combination of medication and talk therapy can be effective at combating the more debilitating symptoms of this disorder once trust has been gained with the patient.

Research/ Studies: Although many doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other professionals have successfully diagnosed and treated patients that have the paranoid personality disorder, there is only one man that stands out amongst them. His name is David Beinenfeld (M.D.). He stands out because he has conducted in depth studies, gathering data and providing the world of psychology with many useful statistics. You can view his work/studies at the following website: http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic3472.htm

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