Understanding How Fear of Closeness Can Lead to Destructive Behaviors

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