The causes of dependent personality disorder (DPD) essentially are unknown. However, mental health professionals have developed a number of hypotheses. People with DPD appear to have a biological, inborn temperament, sometimes referred to as harm avoidance, that is characterized by a tendency to worry about the outcome of a variety of situations that many others take for granted. A pessimistic outlook also plays a role in the disorder. Even when a relationship with a caretaking figure is well established, people with this temperament may feel it is tenuous and could fall apart at any moment.
Research has shown a high correlation between dependent behaviors in people as young as 6- or 7-years-old and their continuation into young adulthood. Researchers have noted a tendency within families of people with DPD to overcontrol their children and discourage their independence. Some people with DPD who have been in treatment expect criticism if they try to make independent decisions, suggesting that they are repeating an expectation they have with family members.
While the cause of DPD is unknown, the best theory is that people with the disorder have an inborn biological tendency toward anxiety and pessimistic expectations, and that this is impacted by an environment that may encourage reliance on others and caution against independent thinking and behavior.
The course of DPD throughout a person’s life is largely unknown because of a lack of research. Also, many people with the disorder never seek treatment because they find job situations and partners who will take care of them and prevent them from excessive distress.
Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 21 Aug 2007
