In which disorder is dependence on others to take care of them a key feature?

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Prepare for the Pennsylvania Psychiatry Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Master the material and boost your confidence!

The key feature of Dependent Personality Disorder is a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of, which leads to a submissive and clinging behavior towards others. Individuals with this disorder often have difficulty making everyday decisions without considerable advice and reassurance from others. They may feel uncomfortable or helpless when alone, due to their exaggerated fears of being unable to care for themselves. This dependence can manifest in various ways, including reliance on family, friends, or partners to fulfill not just needs but also to make decisions for them, which is central to their interpersonal relationships.

In contrast, Avoidant Personality Disorder involves a pattern of social inhibition and feelings of inadequacy, where individuals fear negative evaluation and may avoid social situations but do not necessarily display the same level of dependence. Narcissistic Personality Disorder is characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance and a need for admiration, often resulting in a lack of empathy and a focus on self rather than on dependence on others. Histrionic Personality Disorder is marked by excessive emotionality and attention-seeking, leading to behaviors aimed at being the center of attention, rather than a dependence on others for care or decision-making.

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