Dependent personality disorder is a clinical diagnosis that requires assessment over time. Needing assistance because of disability, culture, resources, or circumstance does not establish a disorder. This page explores how decisions are made and what support you would choose for yourself.
How to use this page
Choose a recent, manageable example. Write, draw, or discuss your answers. Skip anything that does not fit; this page is not a diagnostic assessment.
Separate support from control
Consider a recent decision. Who provided information, who decided, and how free did you feel to disagree? Useful support can include advice or practical assistance while leaving the choice with you.
Choose a supported decision
Pick a low-stakes decision, such as a preferred appointment time. Identify information you need, assistance you want, and a way to express your preference. Do not withdraw essential support to prove independence.
Reflection prompts
Use these questions in conversation, on paper, or in the downloaded PDF. You may adapt or skip a prompt.
Which recent decision was difficult, and what made it hard to express your preference?
What assistance was useful, and what felt pressuring or controlling?
What low-stakes choice could remain yours while you receive needed support?
What would you like a clinician to understand about relationships, safety, and access needs?
Facilitator notes and adaptation
Distinguish coercion and access-related dependence from pervasive personality patterns. Do not encourage abrupt separation from essential care or an unsafe confrontation. Assess vulnerability to exploitation and use supported decision making where appropriate.
Sources behind the concepts
These sources inform the concepts in this original resource. They do not validate or endorse this specific page.