What is a common characteristic of personality disorders?

A common characteristic of personality disorders is impaired social functioning. Individuals with personality disorders often experience long-standing patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that deviate from cultural norms and can result in significant difficulties in interpersonal relationships and social situations. This may manifest as struggles with understanding social cues, maintaining relationships, or adapting to changing social environments, which can lead to isolation or conflict.

Impaired social functioning not only affects the individual but also impacts relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. The patterns of behavior associated with personality disorders tend to be rigid and inflexible, making it challenging for individuals to adapt to different social contexts, which is a hallmark of these disorders.

While intense mood swings, monitoring of social interactions, and temporary behavioral changes can occur in various psychological conditions, they are not defining features exclusive to personality disorders, whereas impaired social functioning is central to the diagnosis and understanding of these disorders.