How might the symptoms described align with the diagnostic criteria for Avoidant Personality Disorder?

According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition (DSM-5), Avoidant Personality Disorder (APD) is characterized by social inhibition, feelings of of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation by others and it typically onsets in adulthood and is indicated by at least four of the following behaviors: avoiding occupational activities with high levels of social contact due to fears of criticism or rejection; issues getting involved with others; restraint in intimate relationships, preoccupation with being criticized, liked or rejected; issues in new social situations; low self-esteem and feelings of inferiority; or issues engaging in new activities due to fear of embarrassment, criticism, etc. (2022). In your case study, W.D has feelings of social isolation, inferiority, and loneliness. Additionally, the patient surrounds himself around people who speak well of him, indicating potential concerns of being ridiculed or criticized by others.
The chosen treatment plan is aligned with research that suggests APD is associated with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and may benefit from treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy and serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as Zoloft (Fariba & Sapra, 2023).

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