Personality can be defined as the set of deep-seated psychological traits that shape the way a person thinks, feels, perceives and behaves. These are relatively stable characteristics, largely unconscious, which are expressed consistently in most everyday situations.
A concept with historical roots
The term ‘personality’ derives from the Greek word ‘persona’, which referred to the mask worn by actors in classical theatre. Today, the concept has evolved to describe the unique way in which each individual understands themselves, interprets reality and relates to others and their environment.
Personality development
According to Millon and Davis, personality is the result of a complex interaction between biological factors and learning experiences. Key factors include inherited temperament and early experiences, particularly those linked to the family and social environment.
This interaction gives rise to relatively stable patterns of:
Perception
Emotion
Thought
Coping
Behaviour
In this sense, personality is shaped through a variety of mental processes aimed at constructing one’s self-image, making sense of reality, forming connections and overcoming the challenges of the environment.
Function and dysfunction
According to Dimaggio and Semerari, these psychological mechanisms may be impaired. When such dysfunctions persist over time and significantly affect various aspects of personal and social functioning, they may manifest as personality disorders.
Behaviour as an observable expression
From John M. Oldham’s perspective, behaviour is the most observable indicator of personality. Although internal processes are not always accessible, behaviour allows us to identify consistent patterns that characterise each individual’s personal style. In this sense, personality is unique and unrepeatable, much like a fingerprint.
Temperament and environment: a two-way influence
From birth, temperament influences an individual’s early behaviour. As they develop, this is shaped by parenting style, family and the socio-cultural context.
This process is bidirectional in nature: certain temperamental traits can elicit specific responses from the environment, which, in turn, tend to reinforce or modify those behaviours, thereby contributing to the consolidation of personality.
Personality disorders
Personality develops throughout life and is reflected both in one’s self-concept and in the way one relates to others. In personality disorders, cognitive and relational schemas hinder an accurate perception of oneself and adaptive interpersonal relationships.
A personality disorder is diagnosed when patterns of thinking, perception and interaction with others lead to a significant deterioration in a person’s quality of life.
These patterns are typically characterised by being long-lasting, intense and inflexible, and by causing personal or interpersonal distress. In this sense, habitual ways of feeling, thinking and behaving can limit opportunities for personal and social development.
It is now generally accepted that personality disorders represent extreme variations of traits found in normal personalities. The difficulties associated with them usually begin at an early age and tend to remain stable over time.
Although the term once had negative connotations, today there is a recognised need to approach it from a clinical and understanding perspective. Personality encompasses needs, traits, schemas and defence mechanisms, but none of these elements fully defines a person.
Therefore, although diagnostic classifications facilitate communication between professionals, it is essential not to lose sight of each individual’s uniqueness, as ignoring personal differences can hinder the provision of appropriate clinical care.
When might we suspect a personality disorder?
“According to research and clinical findings, a personality disorder is expected to have a serious impact on most areas of a person’s life, including behaviour at work and at school, interactions with peers and family, and cognitive and emotional functioning, which is reflected in their sense of self and of others, and in their relationship with reality in general.”
Personality disorders are traditionally grouped into three main categories:
Group A: characterised by difficulties in interpersonal relationships and distinctive cognitive or perceptual styles. This group includes paranoid personality disorder, schizoid personality disorder and schizotypal personality disorder.
Group B: characterised by emotional intensity, impulsivity and unstable interpersonal relationships. This group includes borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, histrionic personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder.
Group C: characterised by insecurity, fear, or a need for control or approval. This group includes avoidant personality disorder, dependent personality disorder and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.
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