Dependent Personality Disorder in People living alone

Key things to know What the evidence shows
How common is it? NE
Is it more common among people living alone? Living alone may expose difficulties otherwise accommodated by partners/family
Are people living alone at higher risk? No evidence living alone causes DPD
How much higher is the risk? NE
How often can it be missed? High
Does it show up differently among people living alone? Strong Yes
How might it look different? Living independently may expose decision-making/reassurance difficulties; conversely some people with DPD may avoid living alone
What commonly occurs alongside it? Depression; anxiety
What can it be confused with? Depression; agoraphobia; AvPD; disability-related support needs
Common screening tool DPQ — Dependent Personality Questionnaire
Separate screening tool for people living alone None
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