Cluster B Personality Types: Understanding the Patterns and Protecting Yourself

If you have been in a relationship with someone whose behavior left you feeling confused, drained, or questioning your own reality, you may have encountered a Cluster B personality type. These personality disorders are among the most challenging to navigate, both for the individuals who have them and for the people in their lives. Understanding what Cluster B looks like is an important step toward healing and setting healthier boundaries.

What Are Cluster B Personality Types?

Cluster B personality disorders are a set of personality disorders that can be challenging and problematic. People with cluster B personalities are often manipulative and seek to control others. They tend to be aggressive, angry, and irritable. They may also be self-centered and grandiose in feeling that they are more important than everyone else around them. The term "cluster B" refers to the four main groups:

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Narcissists are often self-centered and are only concerned with their own needs. They have a grandiose sense of self-importance and entitlement, which can lead them to exploit others for their own gain. People with narcissistic personality disorder lack empathy, tend to be exploitative and manipulative, and may engage in unethical behavior to get what they want.

Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)

Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is a personality disorder defined by a pattern of disregard for the rights of others. This can include behaviors such as lying, stealing and manipulating others to achieve personal gain. People with this condition may lack empathy or remorse towards other people and tend not to seek help because they don't realize how serious their condition is.

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental illness that can be serious and debilitating. It's most often diagnosed in women and affects about 1 percent of the population. People with BPD may have intense fear of abandonment, unstable relationships, and impulsive behavior.

Histrionic Personality Disorder

Histrionic personality disorder is a mental health condition in which a person has an excessive need for attention and displays over-the-top behaviors to get it. People with histrionic personality disorder are usually very dramatic, emotional, and attention-seeking.

How Can Peer Support Help With Cluster B Personality Types?

Cluster B personality disorders are challenging and can be difficult to treat or even diagnose. Those who have family members, close friends or partners with this personality type can suffer from abuse. Peer support groups can help with these difficult relationships and the damage they cause by creating a safe environment to connect with other people who have also suffered traumatic or challenging experiences due to close contact with a Cluster B Personality Type.

How ShareWell Supports People Affected by Cluster B

At ShareWell, we focus on supporting those who have been impacted by relationships with people who display Cluster B traits. Our peer support groups provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can share your experience, learn from others who have been through similar situations, and begin rebuilding your sense of self. Whether you are processing a past relationship or navigating a current one, our community is here to help you heal.

Want to connect with others who understand? Join an online support group today.

To view our sessions on Narcissism, click here.