Do you feel extremely shy in social situations? Do you dread meeting new people or going to parties? Do you always worry that people will judge you negatively? If so, you might be suffering from Avoidant Personality Disorder.
Avoidant Personality Disorder (AvPD) is a mental health condition characterized by social withdrawal, feelings of inadequacy, and extreme sensitivity to negative feedback or criticism. People with avoidant personality disorder may have difficulty forming and maintaining close relationships due to their fear of rejection or criticism.
They may avoid social situations or activities altogether out of fear of being embarrassed or judged. While the exact cause of avoidant personality disorder is unknown, it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
AvPD affects about 2.5-3% of the population in the US and is more common in women than men. The most common treatment for Avoidant Personality Disorder is psychotherapy. Through therapy, people with AvPD can learn how to cope with their fear and anxiety. Medication may also be prescribed by a mental health professional to help relieve symptoms.
Common Signs of Avoidant Personality Disorder
While it is okay to feel shy or anxious at times, people with AvPD feel extreme social anxiety that interferes with their everyday lives. If you think you or someone you know might have APD, here are some common signs to look for
1. Extreme Shyness – Individuals with avoidant personality disorder are extremely shy and uncomfortable in social situations. They may go to great lengths to avoid interaction with others, including avoiding eye contact and staying silent.
2. Avoiding Social Situations – People with AvPD often go out of their way to avoid social situations. When they are forced to be in social situations, they often feel very uncomfortable and may even feel like they are being judged by others.
3. Low Self-Esteem – People with this disorder also tend to have very low self-esteem. They may believe that they are unworthy and undeserving of love and respect or that they will always be rejected.
4. Fear of Public Speaking – They may also have a fear of public speaking. This is because they may worry that they will say something wrong or that people will laugh at them.
5. Lack of trust in others – Because they have been hurt so many times before, those with this disorder often find it difficult to trust others. They may believe that everyone is out to get them or that they will always be rejected if they open up.
6. Easily hurt by criticism – They are often hypersensitive to criticism or negative feedback. Even constructive criticism can be experienced as deeply wounding, leading them to withdraw even further from social interactions.
7. Lack of assertiveness – People with this disorder tend to be very passive and have difficulty asserting themselves. They may avoid speaking up or taking initiative for fear of not being taken seriously or being ignored.
If you think you are exhibiting the above-mentioned signs it is important to seek professional help. With treatment, many people with this disorder are able to live fulfilling lives.
Who Is This AvPD Quiz For?
This quiz is for people who are concerned that they may have Avoidant Personality Disorder. It is not a diagnosis of AvPD, but it can help you determine whether you are experiencing some of the common experiences that people with NPD experience.
The symptoms of AvPD may be difficult to identify. That’s why it’s essential to answer the following questions truthfully. The results of this test is intended to be a starting point of your diagnosis and treatment and do not replace professional medical advice.
How Accurate Is This Quiz?
This quiz is NOT a tool to identify mental health disorders. Only a licensed mental health care professional or specialist can diagnose mental health disorders.
MySelfCareNotes believes that self-assessments can be an initial step toward getting treatment. Too many people tend to avoid seeking professional assistance out of fear that their objections are not serious or legit enough.
