Avoidant personality disorder causes sensitivity to rejection, criticism, and embarrassment. It may lead to avoiding social situations, a negative self-image, and an intense fear of ridicule. It's ...

People with avoidant personality disorder have a pervasive fear of emotional closeness. It stems from a lack of self-esteem starting in childhood.

Avoidant personality disorder (AvPD) isn’t as well-known as narcissistic or borderline personality disorder, but that doesn’t mean it’s uncommon. In fact, some researchers tell us that AvPD was the ...

Personality disorders affect an estimated 9% of Americans. Only a mental-health professional can diagnose a personality disorder, typically in adulthood. Insider compared the behaviors, traits, and ...