When asked to respond to the needs and desires of others in work and social situations, individuals with passive-aggressive personality disorder appear to comply or act appropriately, but actually behave negatively and passively resist. This personality disorder is a chronic condition, meaning that it lasts throughout life.
A personality disorder is a set pattern or persistent way of behaving and acting that is usually rigid and inflexible. Individuals with personality disorders have a tendency to have a difficult time getting along with others. They are not able to respond properly when circumstances or situations change. This behavior is so persistent that it affects day-to-day functioning.
When a personality disorder such as this affects normal behavior, it is important to contact a medical professional and seek treatment.
The cause of this disorder is unknown. There may be environmental and genetic (or biological) factors that contribute to the development of the disorder. These factors are often considered to be involved in personality disorders.
There are no established risk factors for passive-aggressive personality disorder, however, genetics may play a role.
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to passive-aggressive personality disorder. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions.
Symptoms include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, including mental health history. Then, the doctor will most likely refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist.
To locate mental health services in your area, visit the National Institute of Mental Health’s “Locate Services” website at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/HealthInformation/GettingHelp.cfm .
There is no medication available for this disorder. If anxiety or depression is also involved, your doctor may prescribe antidepressants. Antidepressants are medications that ease the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Counseling can help the individual become aware of the problem and acknowledge the need to change.
RESOURCES:
American Psychological Association
http://www.apa.org
National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health
http://www.nimh.nih.gov
National Mental Health Association
http://www.nmha.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Psychiatric Association
http://www.cpa-apc.org
Pscyh Supersite
Pearson Education Canada
http://www.pearsoned.ca/psych
References:
LM Tierney, SJ McPhee, MA Papadakis, eds. Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment. 38th edition. Stamford: Appleton & Lange; 1999.
Passive-aggressive personality disorder. MedlinePlus. U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health website. Available at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000943.htm . Accessed July 7, 2005.
Personality disorders. National Mental Health Association website. Available at: http://www.nmha.org/infoctr/factsheets/91.cfm . Accessed July 7, 2005.
Powell, DR. Minding your mental health, Section II, Passive-aggressive behavior. Medical College of Georgia website. Available at: http://www.mcg.edu/students/mentalhealth/PAbehavior.htm . Accessed July 7, 2005.
R. Berkow, ed. The Merck Manual. 16th edition. Rahway: Merck Research Laboratories; 1992.
Last reviewed November 2008 by Theodor B. Rais, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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