What does the term "personality disorder" refer to?

The term "personality disorder" specifically refers to enduring patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience that deviate significantly from the expectations of an individual's culture. These disorders typically manifest in ways that impact interpersonal relationships and social functioning. Individuals with personality disorders often struggle to relate to others or adapt their behavior across different contexts, which can lead to significant challenges in their professional and personal lives.

Focusing on interpersonal relationships, personality disorders can cause persistent problems in how individuals perceive themselves and others, how they form and maintain relationships, and how they respond emotionally to various situations. Therefore, understanding personality disorders primarily involves recognizing their effects on social interactions and relational dynamics, making the first choice the most accurate description of the term.