Which feature is characteristic of Dependent Personality Disorder?

• A. Needs to be taken care of, submissive, and fear of separation
• B. Identity diffusion and unstable self-image
• C. Grandiosity and sense of entitlement
• D. Distrust of others' motives

Answer: (A)

Dependent personality patterns are driven by an excessive need to be taken care of, which produces submissive, clingy behavior and a pervasive fear of separation. This dynamic often makes individuals rely on others to make many decisions, seek constant reassurance, and feel helpless if left alone. The feature described—needing to be cared for, being submissive, and fearing separation—best reflects that persistent pattern, making it the correct choice.

The other traits point to different personality disorders: identity diffusion and an unstable self-image align more with borderline features; grandiosity and a sense of entitlement point to narcissistic patterns; and distrust of others’ motives fits paranoid-type presentations.