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Alternative Names
Personality disorder - passive-aggressiveDefinition Return to top
Passive-aggressive personality disorder is a long-term (chronic) condition in which a person seems to actively comply with the desires and needs of others, but actually passively resists them. In the process, the person becomes increasingly hostile and angry.
Psychiatrists no longer recognize this condition as an official diagnosis. However, the symptoms are problematic to many people and may be helped by professional attention.
Causes Return to top
The causes are unknown, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors are probably responsible.
Symptoms Return to top
People with this disorder resent responsibility and show it through their behaviors, rather than by openly expressing their feelings. They often use procrastination, inefficiency, and forgetfulness to avoid doing what they need to do or have been told by others to do.
Some common symptoms of passive-aggressive personality disorder include:
A person with this disorder may appear to comply with another's wishes and may even demonstrate enthusiasm for those wishes. However, they:
Exams and Tests Return to top
Personality disorders are diagnosed by psychological evaluation and a careful history of the symptoms.
Treatment Return to top
Counseling may help the person identify and change the behavior.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
The outcome can be good with treatment.
Possible Complications Return to top
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your health care provider if you or your child has symptoms of passive-aggressive personality disorder.
References Return to top
Moore DP, Jefferson JW. Passive-aggressive personality disorder. In: Moore DP, Jefferson JW, eds. Handbook of Medical Psychiatry. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2004: chap 143.
Update Date: 10/17/2008 Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Timothy A. Rogge, MD, private practice in Psychiatry, Kirkland, Washington. Also reviewed byDavid Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
