TD12

The origin of the TD12

The test capitalizes on the idea that the forms of personality aberration see by psychiatrists (called ‘troubled personality’ in French) are but the extreme end of continua that represent characteristics that many of us easily recognize in the foibles of our friends and colleagues. These characteristics have been increasingly recognized in human resource management as the ‘dark side’ of personalty that may manifest as Insider Threat.

Ten of the 12 sub-scales were based on extrapolations into the realm of normal personality of such conditions described in the 4th Revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-IV). DSM-IV, a historical edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, revolutionized the way mental health professionals understood and classified mental disorders. Among its many contributions was the detailed classification of personality disorders, categorized into distinct types based on enduring patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that deviate from the expectations of a person’s culture. These are not mental illnesses, but extensions of normal personality that may sometimes raise concern. Here, we describe the 10 personality disorders outlined in the DSM-IV, referred to as “Dysfunctional Tendencies” by ECPA.

1. Paranoid Personality Disorder

Individuals might experience persistent distrust and suspicion of others, interpreting their motives as malevolent. Understanding this tendency involves recognizing a pattern of guardedness that can significantly influence someone’s interactions and relationships. Example: Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver.

2. Schizoid Personality Disorder

This condition is characterized by a detachment from social relationships and a limited range of emotional expression. It’s important to appreciate that individuals with this disorder often find solace in their own company, rather than in the company of others, and this is a preference rather than an aversion. Example: Dr. Manhattan in Watchmen

3. Schizotypal Personality Disorder

People might exhibit acute discomfort in close relationships, cognitive or perceptual distortions, and eccentricities of behavior. It’s a way of experiencing the world that is unique and deeply felt, often misunderstood by those not sharing the same perspective. Example: Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

4. Antisocial Personality Disorder

Marked by a disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others, this condition can be challenging. Understanding it requires acknowledging the complexities of behavior regulation and the importance of compassion and support in addressing these challenges. Example:Gordon Gekko in Wall Street.

5. Borderline Personality Disorder

Characterized by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affects, and marked impulsivity, it’s crucial to approach this condition with sensitivity to the intense emotions and the pain of instability experienced by those affected. Example: Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader in Star Wars.

6. Histrionic Personality Disorder

This involves a pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking. Recognizing this condition means seeing the deep need for validation and understanding behind the expressive behaviors. Example: Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire.

7. Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Individuals may display a grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy. It’s vital to understand the vulnerability that often lies beneath this exterior, driving the need for affirmation. Example: Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada.

8. Avoidant Personality Disorder

Characterized by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation, those with avoidant personality disorder navigate a world that feels overwhelmingly critical. Compassion and understanding can make a significant difference in their lives. Example: Amélie Poulain in Amélie.

9. Dependent Personality Disorder

This condition is marked by a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of, leading to submissive and clinging behavior and fears of separation. It highlights the importance of understanding dependency as a complex emotional state, rather than a choice. Example: Bianca in Lars and the Real Girl.

10. Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (distinct from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)

Individuals may be preoccupied with orderliness, perfectionism, and control, at the expense of flexibility, openness, and efficiency. Recognizing the intense pressure of perfection and the effort to maintain control is key to understanding this condition. Example: Hermione Granger in Harry Potter.

Conclusion

The DSM-IV’s classification of these personality disorders provides a framework for understanding complex behavioral patterns. The TD12, adapted into English, serves as a valuable tool for assessing these “Dysfunctional Tendencies,” offering insights into the nuanced spectrum of human behavior. It’s crucial to approach the subject with empathy and respect, acknowledging that each individual’s experience is unique and deeply personal. Understanding these conditions not only fosters compassion but also encourages supportive dialogue and promotes mental health awareness in a way that is inclusive and non-judgmental. Today there is an increasing recognition of the importance of psychological diversity – everybody has a role to play in the evolution of tomorrows society.