paranoid personality disorder

psychology

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

Paranoid personality disorder is a mental disorder characterized by pervasive and unjustified mistrust and suspiciousness of others. Individuals with this disorder may misinterpret actions and words as having special significance or being directed against them. They can be guarded, secretive, hostile, quarrelsome, and overly sensitive to criticism. This disorder is more common in males and may develop over a lifetime, sometimes beginning in childhood or adolescence. While the exact causes are unknown, there is likely a hereditary component. Personality disorders are generally difficult to treat, but a combination of behavioral and psychotherapeutic therapies can be effective.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

personality disorder
Persons who have a paranoid personality disorder show a pervasive and unjustified mistrust and suspiciousness of others. They may be secretive or aggressive and are excessively sensitive to implied slights or criticism. Persons with schizoid personality disorder appear aloof, withdrawn, unresponsive, humourless, and dull and are solitary to an…
Read More
Persons who have a paranoid personality disorder show a pervasive and unjustified mistrust and suspiciousness of others. They may be secretive or aggressive and are excessively sensitive to implied slights or criticism. Persons with schizoid personality disorder appear aloof, withdrawn, unresponsive, humourless, and dull and are solitary to an…
Read More