Which of the following is a diagnostic test for anxiety disorder?

A. Fear of rejection. Individuals with avoidant personality disorder (AVPD) have an intense fear of rejection or criticism, leading them to avoid social situations, relationships, and new experiences despite wanting social connection. This fear stems from deep feelings of inadequacy.

B. Jealous of others. Jealousy is not a defining trait of AVPD but is more commonly associated with narcissistic or borderline personality disorders. People with AVPD are more self-critical and insecure rather than envious of others’ success or relationships.

C. Afraid to make new relationships. Those with AVPD struggle to form new relationships due to fear of embarrassment, criticism, or social failure. They often require strong reassurance and validation before feeling comfortable in social settings.

D. Avoids social interactions. Avoidance of social interactions is a hallmark of AVPD, as individuals tend to withdraw from work, friendships, and social activities to protect themselves from perceived humiliation or failure.

A. Fear of abandonment. Individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) have an intense fear of abandonment, leading to frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined rejection. This fear often results in unstable relationships, clingy behavior, or extreme emotional reactions to perceived neglect.

B. No remorse. Lack of remorse is characteristic of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), not BPD. People with BPD may experience guilt, regret, and self-loathing, particularly after impulsive actions or relationship conflicts. Unlike ASPD, they do not engage in manipulative or harmful behavior without concern for others' feelings.

C. Mood swings. Rapid and intense mood swings are a hallmark of BPD. Affected individuals may shift from euphoria to despair within hours, often triggered by interpersonal stressors. This emotional instability contributes to self-destructive behaviors and difficulty maintaining relationships.

D. Impulsivity. People with BPD frequently engage in impulsive and reckless behaviors, such as substance abuse, binge eating, reckless driving, or self-harm. These behaviors are often driven by emotional dysregulation and difficulty coping with distress.