7 Common Myths About Personality Disorders and the Truth Behind Them
- Dr. Tilbe Ambrose
- Sep 23
- 4 min read
Personality disorders are some of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. These disorders are often portrayed in extreme, inaccurate ways, whether in TV dramas, online articles, or casual conversation.
These misconceptions can lead to stigma and shame, preventing those affected from seeking the support they need and creating missed opportunities for healing.
If you’ve ever wondered what’s true and what’s not, you’re in the right place. We’re debunking seven common personality disorder myths.
Myth 1: Personality Disorders Are Rare
They’re more common than many people think. In fact, research suggests 9% of the U.S. population will meet the criteria for a personality disorder at some point in their lives.
Sadly, this estimate is conservative and includes only clinically confirmed cases. In reality, more people may be struggling with personality disorders without knowing.
After all, symptoms can present in subtle ways or overlap with other issues, so many cases go undiagnosed.
Recognizing how common these conditions are is the first step toward reducing stigma and increasing understanding.
Myth 2: A Diagnosis Means Something Is “Wrong” With Who You Are
Receiving a personality disorder diagnosis can feel heavy, especially if you’ve internalized the belief that it says something negative about your character. In most cases, these unhelpful personality patterns are manifestations of challenging upbringing and unmet needs as a child.
In truth, a diagnosis is simply a tool that identifies patterns in thinking, feeling, and relating that are causing distress or difficulties in daily life.
Just like a physical health condition, knowing the name and nature of the problem helps professionals tailor treatment to your needs.
Myth 3: Personality Disorders Can’t Be Treated
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Are personality disorders treatable?”, the answer is yes.
While progress may take time and effort, there is strong evidence that people can make significant improvements in their symptoms, relationships, and quality of life.
Treatments such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and schema therapy have shown measurable results. And with consistent support, recovery is possible.
Myth 4: Therapy Doesn’t Work for Personality Disorders
Closely related to the “untreatable” myth is the notion that therapy has little to offer.
The truth is that therapy for personality disorders can be transformative when it’s approached with skill, empathy, and the right methods. Effective therapy focuses on:
Building emotional regulation
Fostering healthier relationship dynamics
Strengthening self-awareness.
Over time, these changes can lead to better communication, reduced conflict, and greater stability.
Myth 5: People With Personality Disorders Are “Difficult” or “Manipulative”
This myth reflects stigma more than reality.
Many individuals with personality disorders struggle with deep-seated fears of abandonment, intense emotional reactions, or difficulty trusting others — symptoms that can sometimes be misunderstood as intentional manipulation. In truth, these behaviors are often protective responses shaped by negative past experiences, chronic invalidation, and repeatedly unmet needs.
When seen through a lens of compassion rather than judgment, it becomes clear that what may look like “difficult” behavior is often a sign of emotional distress and a need for understanding.
Myth 6: Only Adults Can Show Signs of Personality Disorders
It’s true that personality disorders are not formally diagnosed in minors — that’s part of the diagnostic criteria. However, adolescents can display early personality tendencies, such as ongoing struggles with relationships, self-image, or impulse control. Catching these patterns early is valuable because it allows for support, therapy, and skill-building before they develop into more ingrained and diagnosable problems in adulthood.
Myth 7: Diagnosing Personality Disorders Is Simple and Quick
Some people believe that identifying a personality disorder is as simple as filling out a checklist or answering a few questions.
In reality, accurate diagnosis requires a thoughtful, comprehensive process. A clinician will typically use structured interviews, standardized assessments, and detailed history-taking to fully understand the individual’s experiences.
A therapist will also consider and rule out other mental health or medical conditions that might explain certain symptoms. This thorough approach ensures that the personality disorder diagnosis is accurate and that the recommended treatment plan is truly suited to the person’s needs.
How We Can Help
We understand that living with a personality disorder (or wondering if you might have one) can feel overwhelming. For this reason, we offer Restore Psychology personality disorder treatment that is both evidence-based and personalized to your needs. We specialize in:
Comprehensive assessments and accurate diagnoses.
Therapy approaches proven to help with personality disorders.
A holistic, whole-person focus that integrates mind, body, and spirit.
An optional Christian perspective for clients who want their faith incorporated into care.
We believe healing happens when you feel seen, heard, and supported — not judged.
Restore Psychology: Care That Supports — Not Judges
If you’re ready to move past the misconceptions about personality disorders and toward real solutions, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule your evaluation and learn more about therapy for personality disorders that can help you or your loved one build a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Schedule your consultation now and take the first step toward healing and clarity.
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