A 29-year-old woman is dependent on her husband for many needs that require social interaction. She depends on him to pump her gas and to make all phone calls. She holds a job that requires little to no interaction with others. She is highly sensitive to criticism and fears embarrassment or rejection. She is submissive to the demands of her mother, which causes interpersonal conflict within her marriage. What is her most likely diagnosis?

Choice A reason: The client exhibits traits of both avoidant and dependent personality disorders. Avoidant personality disorder is marked by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to criticism. Dependent personality disorder involves excessive reliance on others for decision-making and daily tasks. Her avoidance of social interaction, fear of rejection, and dependence on her husband and mother support this dual diagnosis. Choice B reason: Borderline personality disorder involves emotional instability, impulsivity, and intense interpersonal relationships. The client does not display mood lability, self-harm, or unstable relationships typical of borderline personality disorder. Choice C reason: Social anxiety disorder involves intense fear of social situations due to concerns about being judged or embarrassed. While the client has social avoidance, her pervasive dependence and submissiveness suggest a personality disorder rather than an anxiety disorder alone. Choice D reason: Agoraphobia is the fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable. It typically involves avoidance of public places, not reliance on others for social tasks or submissiveness in relationships.