Cluster A
Alex has worked in a remote data entry job for years, preferring the isolation it offers. Colleagues have invited Alex to social gatherings numerous times, but Alex always declines, expressing no interest in spending time with others or making friends. At family events, Alex is the person who sits alone, engaging minimally in conversations and showing little to no reaction to what would typically be exciting or sad news. Alex finds comfort in solitary hobbies, like assembling complex puzzles or studying astronomy, often losing track of time in these activities.
Schizoid Personality Disorder
Jordan, a marketing specialist, experiences intense relationships with colleagues, idealizing them one moment and devaluing them the next, based on perceived slights. After a minor disagreement with a coworker, Jordan impulsively quits the job, feeling utterly betrayed and abandoned, then spirals into a depressive state, doubting their self-worth and fearing they will never succeed in any career. Jordan's mood can shift rapidly, from intense irritation to moments of anxiety about being alone, leading to desperate attempts to avoid perceived abandonment, including impulsively starting relationships.
Borderline Personality Disorder
Pat, an academic researcher, spends excessive amounts of time on minor details in their work, striving for perfection that is never achieved, often at the expense of the overall project deadlines and their personal life. They are rigidly devoted to work and productivity, struggling to delegate tasks due to a belief that only they can do them correctly. This need for control and perfectionism strains relationships with colleagues and family, as Pat insists that their way is the only correct approach to any task or problem.
OCPD
Jamie, a freelance graphic designer, often misinterprets clients' feedback as personal attacks or attempts to undermine their work. This belief leads Jamie to respond defensively and sometimes angrily, accusing clients of trying to sabotage their career. Jamie has few friends and is convinced that their neighbors are spying on them, leading to frequent arguments. Jamie insists on using multiple layers of security on all devices, fearing that others are out to steal their identity or work.
Paranoid Personality Disorder
Taylor, an emerging entrepreneur, frequently boasts about their startup, exaggerating its success and potential, despite facing significant challenges. They demand constant admiration and special treatment from employees and partners, reacting with rage or disdain when criticized or when they don't receive the expected praise. Taylor exploits others for personal gain, showing little regard for their feelings or contributions. Despite their charm and confidence, Taylor's relationships are superficial, driven by what others can offer them in terms of status and recognition.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Alex relies heavily on their partner to make decisions, from daily choices like what to wear to major life decisions like whether to accept a job offer. This dependence stems from a lack of self-confidence and a fear of being alone or having to take responsibility for their life. Even when the relationship becomes stifling, Alex stays, fearing they cannot function independently. Friends and family notice Alex's reluctance to express disagreement with their partner and often step in to provide the support and assurance Alex seeks.
Dependent Personality Disorder
Casey, a college student, is known for their eccentric dress sense and unusual way of speaking, often talking to themselves in public or laughing at inappropriate times. They believe in the power of crystals to influence events and claim to sense people's auras. This belief system makes it challenging for Casey to engage in typical social interactions, as their conversations often veer into these subjects, alienating peers. Despite being academically gifted, Casey struggles to work in groups, preferring individual projects where they can apply their unique perspectives.
Schizotypal Personality Disorder
Chris, who runs a small online reselling business, has a history of manipulating suppliers and customers for profit, showing no remorse for those who suffer from their actions. They are known to fabricate stories to elicit sympathy and gain trust, only to exploit these relationships later. Chris often engages in illegal activities, justifying them as necessary for business success. Despite repeated conflicts with the law and interpersonal relationships characterized by deceit and exploitation, Chris feels justified in their actions, viewing others as merely tools for personal gain.
Antisocial Personality Disorder
Sam, a talented software developer, turns down opportunities for advancement due to intense fear of criticism and rejection. Despite receiving positive evaluations, Sam doubts their abilities and fears that taking on more visible projects will expose them as a fraud. This fear extends to social situations, where Sam avoids company events and team-building activities, worried about saying something embarrassing or being judged by coworkers. The desire for connection is there, but the fear of negative evaluation keeps Sam isolated
Avoidant Personality Disorder
Morgan, a real estate agent, is known for their flamboyant presentation style and attire, always seeking to be the center of attention at open houses and industry events. They tend to dramatize interactions, sharing personal stories with clients to create an instant emotional bond, often blurring professional boundaries. Morgan's need for approval and fear of being ignored lead them to make rash decisions, like overspending on marketing materials or making exaggerated claims about properties to seem more appealing to clients.
Histrionic Personality Disorder