Introduction to Personality Disorder (Fully Accredited)

A Comprehensive Overview

Created byKevin O'Doherty - + ZOOM CLASSES

Last updated 5/2026

English

What you'll learn

State what is personality disorder?
Understand the development of personality disorder
Understand basic theories of personality development
Know about some of the origins and causes of personality disorder
Be familiar with how personality disorder is assessed and diagnosed
Work through a number of tasks and case studies
Have a greater understanding of some of the treatment options available

Course content

1 section • 25 lectures • 1h 57m total length

Tester2:12
This is a welcome and overview of the course
Welcome to the Course, Description and Outline1:57
Thanks for purchasing the course. This video gives an overview of what is covered in the course, the resources involved and whop can benefit from the course. Advice is also given to students who are taking the course individually as well as those studying in groups.
"Normal" Personality Development versus Personality "Disorder"5:05
Here we look at what is considered "normal" personality development and how this differs markedly from personality "disorder. Each is compared and contrasted.
The Controversy around Diagnosis of Personality Disorder3:23
Here we look at why the diagnosis and the actual term "personality disorder" is still controversial in health, social care and mental health settings, and indeed in the community at large. Students are asked to consider why this is so. We move on to discuss the pros and cons of assessment and diagnosis of personality disorder.
Different Types of Personality Disorder (10 most common)3:59
Here we begin to explore the different types of personality disorder and the student is encouraged to do some research on ten different categories of personality disorder. Audio presentations towards the end of the course will clarify the diagnostic criteria for each of these ten personality disorders. We also look at how personality disorders are assessed and diagnosed, we explore where the diagnostic criteria is laid down and can be accessed by the student.
Some of the Known Causes of Personality Disorder4:31
Here we begin to look at what research tells us about some of the causes of personality disorders, including biological, social, cultural and childhood experiences. It is important to point out that there is not one, distinct "cause" of personality disorder, but rather there are a number of influences that are known to play a part.
Childhood Factors and Personality Disorder in Adulthood2:14
More on some of the factors that are known to play a part in the development of personality disorder then, with an emphasis on childhood experiences.
The Biopsychosocial Approach to Understanding Personality Disorder2:14
Finishing off on some of the known factors that play a part in the development of personality disorder, here we look at the range of influences that make up the Biopsychosocial approach.
Attachment During Childhood and Personality Disorder in Adulthood5:04
Here we look at how our attachment during childhood can perhaps make us more prone to developing personality disorder. Different family environments are explored with an emphasis on quality of attachment, love, care and support being important. Myths around certain family types being negative, are dispelled.
Childhood Trauma and Personality Disorder in Adulthood3:59
We move on to look at what the evidence tells us about the role of trauma during childhood and the later development of personality disorder in adulthood, perhaps as a defense mechanism...the individual's bets way of surviving the trauma.
Behaviorism and Humanism Understanding of Personality Disorder5:04
Here we explore 2 prominent schools of thought that attempt to explain personality disorder, behaviorism and humanism. Each is described in terms of the development (as they would propose) of personality disorder.
Assessment and Diagnosis of Personality Disorder5:06
Here we look at the diagnosis of personality disorder. We explore how mental health clinicians and psychiatrists assess (through clinical interview, assessment, observation and feedback from families of the patient) the individual and seek to understand the nature of the symptoms they have been experiencing, in order to, hopefully, arrive at a clear cut, reliable, informed clinical diagnosis of the specific personality disorder that the patient has (if in-deed they do)
Thoughts, Feelings and Behavior in Personality Disorder1:55
An important part of assessment of personality disorder is the exploration of thoughts (about self, the world and the future) and affect, i.e, how the individual expresses and deals with emotions. Here we begin to explore these all important factors in the life of the patient.
Vulnerability Factors in Development of Personality Disorder3:35
Here we look at vulnerability factors in the development of personality disorder, what are some of the factors that [perhaps make us more likely to go on to develop and personality disorder. These vulnerability factors have been explored and have been shown to be clinically important in pd development.
Resilience Factors and Personality Disorder2:32
Here we look at resilience factors, these are the factors that are know to be protective, that (according to research) make us less likely to develop a personality disorder.
The Pros and Cons of Diagnosing Personality Disorder8:49
Here we explore the pros and cons of diagnosis of personality disorder. We look at the arguments on both sides of the debate and the student is encouraged to reach their own conclusion o the issue.
Clusters of Symptoms and the Diagnosis of Personality Disorder3:33
More information here on the diagnosis of personality disorder and how the psychiatrist will look at a whole range of information, including the "cluster" of symptoms that the individual has been experiencing. This along with the extensive clinical interview and the gathering of additional data leads to the successful diagnosis of the specific type of personality disorder that the individual is assumed to have.
Research Task with Assessment Tools for Assessment of Personality Disorder2:59
Here the individual is encouraged to complete a research task. Specifically, you are asked to research 4 specific assessment tools related to personality disorder assessment.
Therapeutic Interventions 13:28
Here we begin to look at the concept of treatment and therapeutic interventions for personality disorder.
Therapeutic Interventions 213:12
Continuing with the theme of interventions for people with personality disorder
The Phenomena of Splitting in Personality Disorder8:10
A controversial phenomena in working with clients who have personality disorder is the concept of splitting, where staff are effectively "split" in their work with clients, affecting team dynamics and professional standards.
Personality Disorders are Childhood Survival Armour5:52
This video is in the form of a podcast coincversation between 2 professionals - discussing the topics at hand.
The Importance of Boundaries15:18
Professional Boundaries are the lines that are drawn between what is acceptable and unacceptable actions for staff members and professionals. Here we look at what boundaries are, why we need to have them and how we can effectively implement and maintain them professionally and effectively.
Conclusion, Thankyou and Goodbye!1:06
Thank you so much for your dedication in completing the course, well done! Hope to see you soon on one of my many other courses on Udemy!
This is a promotional video about one of my most popular courses on Udemy1:50
This is a promotional video about one of my most popular courses on Udemy

Requirements

No previous knowledge or experience in working with Personality Disorder is required
An interest in the subject

Description

Ongoing Professional Development: This course provides the knowledge and skills to improve performance in this area, offering 10 hours of valuable learning and professional development, as evidenced on the certificate issued upon completion.

Live Streamed Availability: This course and a range of other related courses can be delivered to groups of between 6 and 25 people via Live Streaming with Zoom. Contact Kevin O’Doherty for more details on pricing and availability etc.

This IAOTH (International Association of Therapists) accredited course, developed by Kevin O'Doherty—author, psychologist, cognitive behavioral therapist, and expert witness—provides an in-depth exploration of personality disorders. The course is suitable for anyone with a personal or professional interest in understanding personality disorders, whether you're an aspiring mental health professional, a current practitioner, or someone looking to understand these conditions more thoroughly.

Key Areas of Focus:

Origins of Personality Disorders: Discover the development of “normal” personality and how deviations from typical personality development can lead to the formation of personality disorders. The course explores how environmental, genetic, and psychological factors contribute to personality traits and their potential path to disorder.
Causes of Personality Disorders: Explore the various causes and risk factors that contribute to the development of personality disorders, including early childhood experiences, trauma, and potential genetic influences. Understand the role of nature vs. nurture in the development of maladaptive patterns of behavior and thought.
Assessment and Diagnosis: Learn how mental health professionals assess and diagnose personality disorders, including the use of diagnostic tools, interviews, and behavioral assessments. Understand the criteria for diagnosing personality disorders and how to differentiate between various types, such as borderline, antisocial, narcissistic, and avoidant personality disorders.
Treatments and Interventions: Delve into evidence-based treatments and therapeutic interventions commonly used to address personality disorders, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Schema Therapy. The course also covers pharmacological treatments where applicable and explores how therapy is tailored to different types of personality disorders.
Professional Standards and Practices: Understand the standards of practice required for professionals working with individuals who have personality disorders. This includes maintaining appropriate boundaries, ensuring safety, and managing potentially challenging behaviors that can arise during therapy or other interventions.
Staff Boundaries and Personal Safety: Gain insight into best practices for maintaining personal safety and professional boundaries when working with individuals with personality disorders. Learn how to protect your well-being while offering effective and compassionate support to clients.

Course Features:

High-Quality Video Presentations: The course includes engaging video lectures delivered by Kevin O'Doherty, featuring expert insights into personality disorders.
Audio Files, PowerPoint Slides, and Handouts: Access additional resources, including audio files, PowerPoint presentations, and handouts that reinforce key concepts, making the learning experience more dynamic and comprehensive.
Case Studies, Tasks, and Exercises: Engage with real-world case studies and participate in interactive exercises designed to deepen your understanding and provide practical applications of the material. These tasks will help you apply theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios.

Teaching Style:

The course adopts a relaxed, informal, and professional teaching style, ensuring the content is accessible without sacrificing depth or complexity. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to reflect on the material, discuss concepts with others, and ask questions to clarify any points of confusion. Kevin O'Doherty is always available to address any queries and invites feedback from students on how to improve the course content.

Ideal for:

This course is perfect for students, professionals, or anyone with a genuine interest in personality disorders. It is especially valuable for mental health professionals, counselors, psychologists, and social workers. Additionally, individuals who want to understand personality disorders from a personal perspective will find this course both insightful and helpful.

Instructor:

Kevin O'Doherty has over 20 years of experience working in mental health and has developed a vast knowledge base in the field. He is a qualified Forensic Mental Health Expert Witness and CBT Therapist, with firsthand experience in diagnosing and treating personality disorders. Kevin is passionate about providing high-quality education and is available to engage with students throughout the course.

Additional Learning Options:

The course is available via live streaming and face-to-face sessions upon request, offering flexibility to meet the needs of individuals and organizations. Get in touch with Kevin for personalized learning experiences or to explore other courses that may complement this one.

Conclusion:

If you're looking to gain a deeper understanding of personality disorders, the causes and treatment methods, or you're seeking practical tools to help individuals struggling with these conditions, this course will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate this complex subject. Whether you're studying for personal enrichment or to enhance your professional practice, this course is an excellent resource.

Contact Kevin O'Doherty to learn more, ask questions, or request a face-to-face session.

Who this course is for:

Anyone who works in mental health settings
Anyone working in health and social care settings
Anyone with a personal or professional interest in Personality Disorder