Causes and Risks:

The causes are unknown, but, like most personality disorders, a combination of genetic and environmental factors are probably responsible. People with this disorder resent responsibility, and show it through behaviors rather than through open expression of their feelings. Procrastination, inefficiency, and forgetfulness are behaviors used to avoid responsibility. The cause of this disorder is unknown. Biological or genetic factors do not appear to play a role.

Symptoms:

• Procrastination
• Intentional inefficiency
• Avoiding responsibility by claiming forgetfulness
• Complaining
• Blaming others
• Resentment
• Sullenness
• Does not express hostility or anger openly
• Fears authority
• Resists suggestions from others

Signs and Tests:

A history of typical behaviors, and a psychological evaluation, are usually sufficient to diagnose passive-aggressive personality disorder.

Treatment:

Counseling may be of value in helping the person identify and change the behavior.

Prognosis:

The outcome can be good with treatment.

Complications:

• Stunted career development despite good intelligence
• Alcohol abuse or other drug abuse

Though not generally a disorder that presents for treatment, other problems such as alcohol abuse or depression may indicate an underlying personality disorder.