Cluster B maladaptive personality traits in Spanish adolescents

The prevalence and expression of Cluster B personality disorders during adolescence have been poorly analyzed. The main aim of this research was to analyze the rate of Cluster B maladaptive personality traits in Spanish adolescents. We also examined dimensional structure underlying the influence of sex and age in its phenotypic expression, was also examined.

The sample consisted of a total of 1440 participants (Mean=15.9 years, SD=1.2). The self-reporting questionnaire used was the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire-4 + (PDQ-4 +).

Maladaptative «dramatic» or «erratic» personality traits are common among adolescents, particularly antisocial and borderline facets. Using the PDQ-4+ cut-off points, 20.3% of the sample submitted had a Cluster B personality disorder. The analysis of the internal structure of the Cluster B items of the PDQ-4 + yielded a factorial solution centred on three interrelated factors, including: Antisocial, Borderline and Histrionic/Narcissistic. There were differences by gender in the subscales of Cluster B, but not in function of age.

These data yield new insights that improve the understanding of the Cluster B personality disorders and traits in this sector of the population. Future studies should use measurement tools that take into account the concern, conviction and distress associated with such experiences.