Ep 47: Avoidant Personality | The 6 Subtypes

In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) dive into Avoidant Personality Disorder, exploring Dr. Theodore Millon's six subtypes. We discuss a few interesting historical names before jumping into the characteristics of mild (Anxiously & Imaginatively shy); moderate (Hypersensitively & Phobicly Reticent); and severe (Conflicted & Self-Deserting) subtypes. Our conversation also critiques Millon's work, questioning the distinctiveness of avoidant traits compared to other personality disorders, and we invite listeners/viewers to share their thoughts and opinions.

🆘In need of psychodynamic therapy or a psychological evaluation? OR are you a provider stuck on a tricky case? To schedule with us, please visit the practice website and fill out the inquiry form! 👉https://www.questpsych.org. Clinicians use the email listed on the website.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction & Historical Names 05:18 Millon's Six Subtypes of Avoidant Personality 5:38 Mild Type Overview 6:44 Anxiously Shy Type 9:14 Imaginatively Shy Type 12:05 Moderate Level Overview 12:28 Hypersensitively Reticent Type 14:31 Phobicly Reticent Type 16:55 Severe Level Overview 17:29 Conflicted Avoidant Type 19:40 Self-Deserting Avoidant Type 22:21 Our Opinions About the Subtypes 26:14 Summary & Conclusion