Understanding How Fear of Closeness Can Lead to Destructive Behaviors
New research explores how fear of closeness and vulnerability contribute to destructive behaviors in individuals with personality disorders, emphasizing the importance of understanding underlying psychological mechanisms for improved therapy.
Recent research by an international team from Freie Universität Berlin, Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, and University Psychiatric Clinics Basel sheds light on the psychological mechanisms behind erratic, narcissistic, or aggressive behaviors often seen in individuals with personality disorders. Such behaviors, particularly in the public eye, can seem unpredictable or reckless, but they often stem from deep-seated difficulties in forming genuine emotional connections, maintaining a stable self-image, and understanding others' motives. These challenges are frequently rooted in adverse childhood experiences that shape problematic defense mechanisms like projection, where individuals blame others or attack when overwhelmed by negative emotions.
The study, based on in-depth interviews and clinical diagnoses of over 500 people across Germany and Switzerland, highlights that these psychological traits serve as short-term protective strategies against distress but severely impair social interactions and personal relationships. Difficulties in managing closeness and intimacy, coupled with primitive defense mechanisms, lead to a fragile sense of self that is easily threatened, resulting in behaviors that can be destructive and harmful.
Understanding these underlying mechanisms is crucial, especially in times of societal and political crises marked by conflict, projection, fear of vulnerability, and lack of empathy. Psychodynamic approaches, focusing on defense mechanisms and relational dynamics, could improve therapeutic strategies to better address personality disorders and help individuals develop healthier ways to cope with emotional distress and improve their social functioning.
This research not only advances scientific knowledge about personality disorders but also opens the door for more targeted therapies that can foster emotional resilience and healthier interpersonal relationships.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-vulnerability-destructive-behavior.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Innovative Video Game Enhances Emotional Regulation in Young Adults, Study Finds
A new immersive video game, emoWELL, has shown promising results in enhancing emotional regulation and well-being among young university students, offering a novel approach for emotional training and prevention.
Effective Prevention Programs Support Parents in Managing Children's Behavioral Challenges
Learn how prevention programs equip parents to manage behavioral and anxiety issues in young children, promoting healthy emotional development early on.
Genetic and Environmental Factors in Family Mental Health: Breaking the Cycle
A groundbreaking study reveals that while mental health issues often run in families, they are not predetermined. Strengthening family environments and early interventions can break this cycle and promote resilience.