Axis II and Cluster B personality disorders are both classifications used in the field of psychology and psychiatry to categorize certain types of personality disorders. These classifications were commonly used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), but it’s important to note that the DSM-5, which is the current edition at the time of my last update in 2022, has moved away from the Axis system. However, the information about these classifications can still be valuable for understanding personality disorders.
Axis II:
In the older DSM-IV system, Axis II was used to categorize personality disorders and mental retardation. Personality disorders are characterized by enduring patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience that deviate markedly from the expectations of the individual’s culture. These patterns typically lead to distress or impairment in important life domains. There were three clusters of personality disorders on Axis II:
Cluster A: This cluster includes personality disorders with odd or eccentric behavior. Examples include Paranoid Personality Disorder, Schizoid Personality Disorder, and Schizotypal Personality Disorder.
Cluster B: This cluster includes personality disorders with dramatic, emotional, or erratic behavior. This is where you’ll find the Cluster B personality disorders.
Cluster C: This cluster includes personality disorders with anxious or fearful behavior. Examples include Avoidant Personality Disorder, Dependent Personality Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder.
Cluster B Personality Disorders:
Cluster B personality disorders are characterized by dramatic, emotional, or erratic behavior. They include:
- Antisocial Personality Disorder: People with this disorder tend to disregard and violate the rights of others. They often have a history of conduct problems and may engage in criminal behavior.
- Borderline Personality Disorder: Individuals with borderline personality disorder often have unstable relationships, self-image, and emotions. They may engage in impulsive and self-destructive behaviors.
- Histrionic Personality Disorder: People with histrionic personality disorder seek attention and are often uncomfortable when they are not the center of attention. They may be overly dramatic and seductive.
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Individuals with narcissistic personality disorder have an exaggerated sense of self-importance and a constant need for admiration. They lack empathy for others.
These disorders can be challenging to manage, both for the individuals who have them and for those around them. The DSM-5, as I mentioned earlier, has made some changes in how personality disorders are categorized, moving away from the Axis system and providing a dimensional approach to assessing personality functioning. This reflects ongoing research and evolving understanding of personality disorders.
Linda C J Turner
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