Title: Dependent Personality DisorderSpecific Purpose: The purpose of my speech is to inform my audience about dependent personality disorder.Thesis Statement: I will describe what is dependent personality disorder, what causes this disorder, and how it can be treated.IntroductionAttention-getter: We all have that “clingy” person in our life. Connection to Audience: Whether it’s the needy girlfriend calling every half hour or that friend that can’t handle being alone, we have had relationships with people who need constant attention and reassurance to an unhealthy degree. When these behaviors become long-lasting rigid patterns, it is defined as Dependent Personality Disorder.
Preview: First, we must define what is Dependent Personality Disorder.BodyI. What is Dependent Personality Disorder? A. Definition1) “People with this disorder have a pervasive, excessive need to be taken care of” (Psychology Today). 2) “Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is one of the most frequently diagnosed personality disorders. It occurs equally in men and women, usually becoming apparent in young adulthood or later as important adult relationships form” (WebMD.com).
B. Symptoms1) Unable to make decisions without the advice and reassurance of others2) Avoid personal responsibilities 3) Depend on a spouse or friend to make all decisions 4) Extreme fear of abandonment 5) Willing to endure ill-treatment and abuse from others6) Lack self-esteem 7) Oversensitive to criticism or disapproval8) Difficulty being alone (Now that we know what Dependent personality disorder is, what is the cause of it?)II. What is the cause of DPD?There is no one accepted cause of dependent personality disorder. However, there are certain theories as to what causes DPD:A. Psychodynamic theorists say that rejection from parents in early childhood causes the child to have warped understandings of attachment and separation which leaves the person with an intense fear of being abandoned. Other psychodynamic theorists claim that parents were overinvolved and overprotectiveB. Behaviorists claim that parents of individuals with DPD may have inadvertently rewarded clingy behavior and punished acts of autonomy.
Other parents may have modeled dependent behaviors(Just as there are various reasons an individual can develop this disorder, there are also several types of treatments.)III. Treatments for DPDA. Psychotherapy is the ideal treatment for individuals with DPD. Psychodynamic therapists focus on the transference of dependency onto the therapistB. Cognitive-behavioral therapy focuses on maladaptive attitudes, and resolving symptoms or traits that are characteristic of the disorder. Behaviorists provide assertiveness training while Cognitive therapists challenge the beliefs of incompetence and helplessness.
Improvements are usually seen only with long-term therapy or treatment.C. Antidepressants, sedatives, and tranquilizers are frequently prescribed for patients with DPD to treat co-morbid conditions.(In conclusion,)Conclusion Summary: we have learned the definition of Dependent Personality Disorder, what are the causes of the disorder, and its different treatments.Memorable Statement: Please keep in mind that not every needy person in your life is suffering from dependent personality disorder.
