A charge nurse is reinforcing teaching with a newly licensed nurse about the clinical manifestations of dependent personality disorder. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A reason: Individuals with dependent personality disorder often struggle with making simple decisions without excessive advice and reassurance from others. They have a strong need for others to take responsibility for major areas of their lives and can feel helpless when alone. This indecisiveness is a hallmark of the disorder and stems from their lack of self-confidence and reliance on others for guidance and support. Choice B reason: Enjoying spending time alone is not a characteristic of dependent personality disorder. In fact, individuals with this disorder typically avoid being alone and seek constant companionship and support from others. They may go to great lengths to be taken care of and may feel uncomfortable or distressed when they are by themselves. Choice C reason: Extreme perfectionism is more commonly associated with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) rather than dependent personality disorder. While individuals with dependent personality disorder may exhibit some perfectionistic traits, it is not a defining characteristic of the disorder. The primary issues in dependent personality disorder revolve around dependency and fear of abandonment. Choice D reason: Confrontational behavior is not typical of dependent personality disorder. Individuals with this disorder tend to be passive, submissive, and avoidant of conflict. They are more likely to acquiesce to others' demands and avoid confrontations in order to maintain relationships and ensure they are taken care of. This behavior contrasts with the confrontational tendencies seen in other personality disorders.