Personality disorders.

Personality disorders are characterized by inflexible maladaptive traits that cause significant impairment in social and occupational functioning. Categories of personality disorders include paranoid, schizoid, histrionic, narcissistic, antisocial, borderline, avoidant, dependent, compulsive and passive-aggressive. The inflexible nature of these disorders and the lack of an alternative behavioral repertoire result in an inability to cope with environmental pressure. The goal of management is the development of healthier behavioral responses to stress. A personality change in older patients suggests organic disease.