Avoidant Personality Disorder is classified under Cluster C of the DSM.
Clinical features:
(1) social inhibition with a tendency towards isolation
(2) feelings of inadequacy or inferiority
(3) hypersensitive to rejection or criticism
(4) avoids activities that may entail interpersonal contact
(5) easily embarrassed
(6) shows restraint in intimate relationships
Complications:
(1) depression
(2) substance abuse
(3) eating disorder
(4) perfectionism
(5) suicidal ideation
The diagnosis should reflect persistent traits and not transient behavior due to illness, stress or medications.
