Childhood Trauma and Personality Disorders

Many of you have heard of a psychiatrist giving the diagnosis of a personality disorder. Now, all of us have a personality that is different from every other individual; we call those differences personality traits. However, the question is: When and how do we identify it as a personality disorder?

Personality disorders characterize maladaptive patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience. These patterns stem from the individual’s childhood. Individuals with personality disorders view their environment differently from others, such that their experiences differ from the norms and expectations of society. 

Childhood trauma, for instance: physical, verbal and sexual abuse, neglect, divorced or separated parents, single parent households, abandonment and rejection, and non-approval from parents or future relationships. These are some of the factors that contribute to poor coping skills, decompensation due to stress, use of immature defense mechanisms, etc.

A combination of the above factors can lead to maladaptive patterns of behavior over years, which are then hard to break, eventually leading to personality disorders. These patients are also predisposed to psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and substance abuse. The treatments for such disorders is aliable, commonly treated with antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antianxiolytics. Psychotherapy helps with emotional liability, improvement of interpersonal issues, and strengthening the coping skills. Early diagnosis and treatment should be the focus of mental health professionals right now. 

What is psychotherapy?

The overall aim of psychotherapy is to help patients of all ages be happy, motivated, and determined to live a more productive lifestyle. The end goal is to help patients make personal and permanent lifestyle changes. The psychologist providing the therapy should provide the most supportive environment possible through constant, constructive, and productive dialogue. The patient should understand that the psychologist should sometimes act as a springboard for thoughts, as the psychologist will not pass judgment. Together, the patient and the psychologist identify what prevents the patient from leading their ideal life, and then working toward getting rid of those negative obstacles.

There are many different approaches to this kind of therapy. Generally, there are five categories. These include:

1. Psychodynamic therapies, which aims to lead the patient to learn about him/herself by changing negative feelings.
2. Behavior therapies. This includes such concepts as desensitizing and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
3. Cognitive therapy, which focuses on thoughts and feelings above all else.
4. Humanistic therapy, which places emphasis on decision-making.
5. Holistic therapy, which is largely undefined and ultimately client-based.

About Dr. Arvinder Kaul MD and Fusion Behavioral Health Services:

Fusion Behavioral Health Services is owned and operated by Arvinder Kaul, MD. Dr. Kaul graduated from Government Medical College, Patiala India (1984) She is a board certified psychiatrist with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a fellow with the American Psychiatric Association (FAPA). Dr. Kaul has over 25 years of medical experience with 14 years of specialized experience in psychiatry. Dr. Kaul did her residency in psychiatry with The University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, MS. Dr. Kaul's passion for the overall treatment of her patients is the driving force behind our clinic. She understands the needs of each individual and strives to provide the best quality care to all who walk through our doors.