What is Avoidant Personality Disorder?

2. Causes of AVPD

Researchers have yet to identify a specific cause of AVPD and consider it an underrecognized and poorly studied condition. However, most agree that the condition develops in early life. Many of those diagnosed with AVPD relate similar early interactions with parents, starting at a young age. These individuals often describe their parents as being less affectionate toward them, not only failing to show them encouragement but also rejecting them on a regular basis. A doctor may diagnose the disorder in adults who experienced abuse or neglect as children. Adoptees develop not only AVPD but other personality disorders at double the rate of children who grew up in their biological home.

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