What defines a personality disorder?

A personality disorder is characterized by an enduring pattern of thought and behavior that deviates markedly from the expectations of an individual's culture. This pattern is pervasive, inflexible, and can lead to significant distress or impairment in personal, social, or occupational functioning. Individuals with personality disorders often have ways of thinking about themselves and others, as well as ways of relating to others, that differ from the norm in a skewed manner.

Recognizing a personality disorder involves identifying these consistent and long-standing patterns that are not simply temporary changes in mood or behavior, but rather entrenched characteristics that can be traced back to adolescence or early adulthood. This is what sets personality disorders apart from situational responses or other mental health issues that may be more transient or acute in nature.