Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is a cluster C personality disorder characterized by a pervasive psychological need to be cared for by others. While "Dependent personality disorder" is the standard clinical term used in the DSM-5-TR, it is sometimes historically referred to as asthenic personality disorder or passive-dependent personality disorder in older psychiatric literature. What are the official names for Dependent personality disorder (DPD)? In modern clinical practice, Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is the universally accepted terminology.
Dependent personality disorder (DPD) synonyms
Other names for Dependent personality disorder (DPD): synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is a cluster C personality disorder characterized by a pervasive psychological need to be cared for by others. While "Dependent personality disorder" is the standard clinical term used in the DSM-5-TR, it is sometimes historically referred to as asthenic personality disorder or passive-dependent personality disorder in older psychiatric literature.
What are the official names for Dependent personality disorder (DPD)?
In modern clinical practice, Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is the universally accepted terminology. It is classified under code 301.6 in the DSM-5-TR and appears as 6D11.1 in the ICD-11 (International Classification of Diseases). While nomenclature has stabilized, patients may occasionally encounter older diagnostic labels in archived medical records or historical research papers.
Why does Dependent personality disorder (DPD) have historical synonyms?
The evolution of psychiatric nomenclature reflects shifts in how clinicians understand personality traits versus pathology. Historically, the following terms were used to describe behaviors now associated with Dependent personality disorder (DPD):
- Asthenic personality disorder: An older term emphasizing weakness or lack of energy.
- Passive-dependent personality disorder: A term used in earlier DSM editions to describe the submissive, clingy nature of the condition.
- Inadequate personality: An outdated, non-specific term once used to describe individuals who struggled to cope with social or emotional demands.
How is Dependent personality disorder (DPD) classified globally?
Medical systems strive for consistency, but variations persist. The ICD-11, maintained by the World Health Organization, classifies Dependent personality disorder (DPD) under the broader category of "Personality Disorder," emphasizing the maladaptive patterns of behavior. In the United States, the American Psychiatric Association’s DSM-5-TR remains the primary reference, where Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is grouped within Cluster C, alongside avoidant and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders.
Next steps
- Consult a licensed psychiatrist or clinical psychologist to obtain an accurate, modern diagnosis.
- Connect with the 7 members of the Dependent personality disorder (DPD) community on DiseaseMaps.org to share experiences.
- Seek evidence-based psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is the current gold standard for treatment.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding your health.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.).
- World Health Organization. (2022). ICD-11 for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics.
- NIH National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - Personality Disorders overview.
- PubMed Central - Review of historical diagnostic criteria for personality disorders.
