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AN ATTEMPT TO PROVIDE A BOUNDARY FOR INDIVIDUALITY

An Attempt to Provide a Boundary for Individuality

Johans Bill D. Marva

Ateneo De Manila University, Philippines

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Abstract

The trait-dispositional perspective is now rising up as a central component of personality

psychopathology. DSM-V proposed a dimensional representation of personality psychopathology

consisting of five pathological trait domains, each representing the maladaptive pole of the Five

Factor Model trait. Ateneo De Manila University Advanced Theories of Personality class aims to

provide an overview of the 25 pathological traits comprising these 5 domains. The focus here is

the maladaptive trait: eccentricity. Throughout the paper, I discussed its prototypal attributes and

differentiate it from related constructs. Towards the end, possible therapeutic targets and

intervention are suggested.

Keywords: eccentricity, oddity, individuality, identity, personality functioning

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An Attempt to Provide a Boundary for Individuality

DSM-IV-TR explicitly states that “Personality traits are diagnosed as a Personality

Disorder only when they are inflexible, maladaptive, and persisting and cause significant

functional impairment or subjective distress.” (4th ed., text rev.; DSM–IV–TR; American

Psychiatric Association, 2000). Despite such an auspicious beginning, the personality disorders

(PDs) of DSM-IV consist mainly of diagnostic criteria. Where maladaptive traits are mentioned,

(e.g, suspiciousness under Schizotypal PD, deceitfulness under Antisocial PD, impulsivity under

Borderline PD), their presence serves mainly as a diagnostic marker. Because maladaptive traits

were not systematically articulated across the PDs, diagnostic reliability was adversely affected,

leading to extensive comorbidity and the predominance of PD-NOS as the most common

personality disorder diagnosis.

DSM-V intends to resolve this by explicitly enumerating and defining five trait domains,

consisting of a total of twenty-five patholological personality traits. The six remaining

personality types present in DSM-V are operationalized as subsets of these 25 personality traits.

Our class intend to give a broader insight about these proposed traits. This is to even further

DSM-5’s endeavour to provide a more viable description of the maladaptive traits constituting

personality disorder types.

Eccentricity as Defined by DSM-V

Eccentricity is initially defined by DSM-V as:

Unusual behavior (e.g., unusual mannerisms: wearing clothes obviously inappropriate

to the occasion or season); saying unusual or inappropriate things, using neologisms,

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or concrete and impoverished speech; seen by others of the same culture and society

as bizarre, odd, and strange. (DSM-V Web site, 2010, T 03 Shizotypal Personality

Disorder Type, para. 5)

On June 21, 2011 it was updated to: “Odd, unusual, or bizarre behavior or appearance;

saying unusual or inappropriate things” (DSM-V Web site, 2011, T 03 Shizotypal Personality

Disorder, para. 2). The first proposal is more specific yet limits the clinician’s diagnosis to

scenarios offered in the definition. The June 21 st update has more generality to it and can be

pertinent to variety of clinical cases. It is also appropriate to remove “seen by others of the same

culture and society” since it is already captured in the dictionary definition of odd, bizarre and

unusual.

Eccentricity and the Worldview (Amplified Definition)

Meriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary, Eleventh Edition (2008) defines eccentricity as

“deviation from an established pattern or norm”. According to Wikipedia (2009) the term

eccentricity “came from Medieval Latin eccentricus, derived from Greek ekkentros, which

means ‘out of the center’.” (Etymology section, para. 1). Thus, eccentricity in behavior denotes a

deviation from normal habits and actions. Yet in this view, it still analogous to another major

psychological term: abnormality---which applies to all psychological disorders. This proposes a

hindrance in providing a satisfactory definition for eccentricity. How can we differentiate

eccentricity from every other abnormal behavior?

In attempt to resolve this, related terms to eccentricity are analyzed. Goldberg (2004)

agreed that “the most important individual differences in human transactions will come to be
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encoded as single terms in some or all of the world's languages”. By looking for possible

synonyms, salient use of the term in different context can be examined. Roget's 21st Century

Thesaurus Third Edition offers a scrupulous list of synonyms for the term eccentricity:

aberration, abnormality, anomaly, caprice, capriciousness, foible, freakishness, hereticism,

idiosyncrasy, irregularity, kink, nonconformity, oddity, oddness, outlandishness, peculiarity,

queerness, quirk, singularity, strangeness, unconventionality, unorthodoxness, waywardness,

weirdness, whimsicality (eccentricity [n.d.]. Retrieved September 20, 2011, from

Thesaurus.com). The distinctions between these terms are examined using definitions from

Meriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary, Eleventh Edition (See Table 1).

From the comparison, the words can be categorized into:

Societal. These are terms that denote an entity deviating from a certain social order. In its

popular use, eccentricity falls under this category. It signifies defiance to established norm,

pattern, rule, law, convention, limit, expectation or standard. Similar terms are: abnormal,

anomaly, irregular, nonconformity, odd, outlandishness, queerness, unconventional,

waywardness and strange. More specific deviations are the terms: heretic and unorthodox. These

are particular to defiance to a religious order.

Internal. This classification signifies unique internal characteristics that differentiate one

from the environment. It indicates a distinct part of a whole. The list includes: idiosyncrasy, kink,

peculiarity, quirk and singularity. Instead of deviation, the definition points toward distinction.

It implies a tendency for deviation but the focal point is on unique internal attribute that
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individualized an entity from its environment. This category directs more toward a unique

identity rather than a maladaptive oddity.

Erratical. This group of synonyms indicates behavior that is sudden, erratic and

unpredictable. This includes the following words: capricious, freakishness, waywardness, and

whimsicality. These terms highlight inconsistency or irregularity in behavior. This suggests an

aspect of oddity that signifies impulsiveness and unexpectedness. This is an important aspect of

oddity that should be included in the DSM-V definition for eccentricity. The construct of

eccentricity is not bound to “odd, unusual and bizarre” behavior. In some degree, eccentric

behavior can also be “erratic”. Synonyms can display how a certain behavior is interpreted in

other vantage points and reveals a significant and unique aspect of the term in other contexts.

Defying certain norms can be one distinguishing aspect. But eccentrics also tend to engage odd

behavior on impulse. Their actions and choices manifest spontaneously. Their behavior can be

very inconsistent and has no fix course.

Manner. This aspect focuses on an individual’s mode or style. The words are: bizarre,

foible and weirdness. The terms refer to character or behavior striking out of the ordinary.

Bizarreness is unique though as it is known clinically and lexically to imply incongruence. The

dictionary suggests “sensational” incongruence (Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary,

Eleventh Edition 2008). While DSM-IV-TR’s definition mentioned bizarre “delusions” and

bizarre “postures” (catatonic). This differentiates DSM-V’s utilization of the term in personality

disorders. It instead specified bizarre “beliefs” (not delusions) or bizarre behavior, appearance

and speech. DSM-IV-TR acknowledges the diversity of the term: “…‘bizarreness’ may be

difficult to judge, especially across different cultures” (4th ed., text rev.; DSM–IV–TR; American
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Psychiatric Association, 2000). It can be different in diverse context where it is utilized.

Remarkably, DSM-V provided a clear distinction between oddities or ‘bizarreness’ in

personality.

Distinction with Related Personality Traits

The DSM-V proposal distinguishes between eccentricity and two related traits, namely:

Unusual beliefs and experiences; and Cognitive and perceptual dysregulation, all of which fall

under the Psychoticism domain. In DSM-V’s latest update, Unusual beliefs and experiences are

attributed to patients who have “thought content and views of reality... viewed by others as

bizarre or idiosyncratic; unusual experiences of reality” (DSM-V Web site, 2011, T 03 Shizotypal

Personality Disorder, para. 3). This trait specifies oddities in beliefs and reality testing. On the

other hand, Cognitive and perceptual dysregulation is defined as: “Odd or unusual thought

processes; vague, circumstantial, metaphorical, over-elaborate, or stereotyped thought or speech;

odd sensations in various sensory modalities.” (DSM-V Web site, 2011, T 03 Shizotypal

Personality Disorder, para. 4). This trait focuses on oddities in thought processes and perception.

Comparatively, eccentricity is limited to oddities in overt behavior such as habit,

appearance, and speech. DSM-V definition implies three areas for oddity: (a) behavior and

speech, (b) beliefs and reality testing, and (c) thought processes and perception.

Differential Diagnosis

Tyler et.al. (2003) stated that “individuals with Cluster A personality disorders typically

do not actively seek treatment and have subsequently been identified as ‘treatment-rejecting’” (as

cited by Hayward, 2007). This suggests that eccentricity, being a Cluster A trait, is a trait that is
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ego-syntonic. In this context, an eccentric individual is not able to see his/her difference or

oddness with the surrounding. He/she is not self-aware enough to provide an interesting account

of his/her own eccentricity as a personal matter (Marcus, 1995). He is unable to see his non-

conformity as a problem and wouldn’t seek therapy (Hayward, 2007). People with Cluster A

traits only resort to therapy during treatment for “coexisting disorders or during crises”

(Hayward, 2007, p. 9). This implies ignorance of social expectation.

Eccentricity is very present in Cluster A Personality Disorders. Shizotypal Personality

Disorder displays the divergence of the trait. Beck and Freeman’s (1990) described it well:

The cognitive distortions in these individuals (w/ Schizotypal PD) are the most severe

of any in the personality disorders and generally consist of suspicious and paranoid

ideation, ideas of reference, odd beliefs, magical thinking and illusions. Speech is

coherent but may be vague, tangential, circumstantial, or overelaborate, and individuals

may engage in emotional reasoning and personalization as a result of their concrete

thought-form. (as cited by Hayward, 2007, p. 19)

Eccentrics attempt to make sense of their uniqueness through rationalization. They tend

to believe that their unique habits are normal. Stone (1985) noted that Shizotypal patients who

are eccentric or “characterized by inappropriate behaviour” undergo extreme social isolation

because of their oddities (as cited by Hayward, 2007). Subsequently, with eccentricity being ego-

syntonic, individuals will have intense need to socialize but experience great pain as a result of

their isolation (Beck & Freeman 1990). Since there is less opportunity for reality testing, if

partnered with increased stress, Beck and Freeman (1990) even suggest that it can deteriorate to

a psychotic condition” (Beck & Freeman 1990). Eccentricity under Schizotypal PD are unaware
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yet still desire acceptance in the society. In this manifestation of eccentricity, defiance of the

social norm is unintentional and only due to ignorance that they are oddly different from others.

In such a case, social contact provides more opportunity for reality testing and thus, makes

individual more mentally healthy.

Social contact does the opposite for the presence of eccentricity in Schizoid Personality

Disorder:

Individuals with Schizoid Personality Disorder often seem indifferent to the approval or

criticism of others and do not appear to be bothered by what others may think of them

(Criterion A6). They may be oblivious to the normal subtleties of social interaction and

often do not respond appropriately to social cues so that they seem socially inept or

superficial and self-absorbed. (4th ed., text rev.; DSM–IV–TR; American Psychiatric

Association, 2000).

How can an eccentric conform to social norm if aside from being oblivious of it, he/she is

indifferent towards it? Here eccentricity is expressed as an outcome of not knowing and not

caring about what the society expects. It is again not their choice to be different. They are

inherently unaware and unconcerned of what society expects. This leads them to develop certain

behavior or speech that is different from most.

Accordingly, habits that defy the norms of the society aren’t always insentient. From the

comparison of synonyms that relate to eccentricity, oddity doesn’t differentiate whether an

individual is oblivious of his/her nonconformity or not. It is oddity, whether it is a conscious

choice or not. An individual can choose defiance in account of self-preservation. Particular case

is a narcissist: “Individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder believe that they are superior,
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special, or unique and expect others to recognize them as such (Criterion 3)” (Italics mine, 4th

ed., text rev.; DSM–IV–TR; American Psychiatric Association, 2000). They are very aware that

they are unique and different from society. Opposite to Schizotypal eccentrics, they find pride in

being odd and different. Though, in this case, odd habits arise from a peculiar belief that he/she

is distinct from society.

Another expression of deliberate eccentricity roots from unwillingness to be swallowed

by social pressure. An individual with passive-aggressive personality is described to have: "a

pervasive pattern of negativistic attitudes and passive resistance (italics mine) to demands for

adequate performance in social and occupational situations..." (4th ed.; DSM–IV; American

Psychiatric Association, 1994). This indicates an outright resistance to social expectation. The

outcome is the same: nonconformity to social norm, yet it is a conscious choice from a chronic

disinclination to submit to social expectation. It is not because of obliviousness to social norm. It

is also not from indifference to it. It is instead unwillingness to allow self to be suffocated by a

perceived onslaught of social pressure. The individual makes excuses and do the opposite of

what is expected to defy society’s demands.

Clinician will encounter different odd patterns of behavior that opposes the expectation of

the society. Specific to eccentricity, certain patients will display odd habits and speech.

Notwithstanding, the manifestation of such deviation can be differentiated from the basis of

behavior. It can root from obliviousness (Schizotypal) or indifference (Schizoid) to social

expectation. It can also be differentiation (Narcissistic) of oneself to society. Or it can root from

unwillingness (Passive-aggressive) to be subdued by social demands.

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In DSM-V eccentricity is exclusively placed under Schizotypal PD. Yet diagnosing odd

behavior can be challenging noting that there are different possible motives for such behavior.

Therefore, it is important to distinguish PDs which manifest eccentricity based on “differences in

their characteristic features” (4th ed., text rev.; DSM–IV–TR; American Psychiatric Association,

2000). Narcissistic individuals manifest odd habits or speech in response to seeing themselves as

different from society. While Schizotypal individuals, on the other hand, manifest odd habits

from their own individuality and still regard oneself as same with society. Moreover, Schizotypal

PD is distinguished from Narcissistic PD because it also requires the presence of another

Psychoticism trait which is: reality testing (Unusual beliefs and experiences).

DSM-IV-TR states that certain Axis I disorders like Delusional Disorder, Schizophrenia,

and Mood Disorder With Psychotic Features can be distinguished from Schizotypal PD because

“the mentioned Axis I disorders are all characterized by a period of persistent psychotic

symptoms” (e.g., delusions and hallucinations; 4th ed., text rev.; DSM–IV–TR; American

Psychiatric Association, 2000). In such case, odd habits are committed from false or irrational

beliefs. It is not anymore a statement of individuality or uniqueness. It is instead a consequence

of psychotic tendencies.

In DSM-V, eccentricity represents the most normal aspect of Shizotypal PD type. Dr.

David Weeks (1995) observed that people with mental illness "suffer" from their behavior while

eccentrics are quite happy. They embrace their individuality and uniqueness and consider it part

of reality. It is when they experience social isolation that they begin to act out (Hayward, 2007).

Remember, DSM-V placed a distinction to different areas of oddities. In this respect, it

provided a platform for a continuum of normality. In DSM-IV-TR, diagnosis for Shizotypal PD is

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given based on a suffice number of symptoms. Yet now, we are given an option to diagnose even

just the oddities in behavior or speech under eccentricity. It provides a more valid diagnostic

label for patients and gives clinicians more perspective on the content of normality.

Insight about the content of normality.

DSM-IV-TR instructed clinicians to specify the severity of the disorder being measured,

specifically: Mild, Moderate and Severe. Experts such as Parker et.al. (2002) and Tyler (2005)

supported the need for such and stated that “measuring the severity level is essential to any

dimensional system for assessing personality psychopathology” (as cited in APA Rationale for

Revised, 2011).

In DSM-IV, clinicians are asked to rate severity by the number of symptoms. DSM-V

proposal attempts to lessen the use of symptoms and instead defined the essential features of

personality disorders as impairments in personality (self and interpersonal) functioning and the

presence of pathological personality traits (APA Rationale for a Revised Criterion, 2010). Now

even the presence of only one pathological personality trait domain or facet can qualify a person

for a personality disorder.

The important factor now in DSM-V is identifying significant impairment (severity) in

personality functioning. Literature reviewed by Bender, Morey, and Skodol (in press)

demonstrated that “PDs are associated with distorted thinking about self and others and that

maladaptive patterns representing self and others serve as substrates for personality

psychopathology” (as cited in APA Rationale for a Revised Criterion, 2010). After investigations

and scientific refinements based on this information the brains of DSM-V proposed four

dimensions that are most central in comprising a personality functioning continuum: Identity,
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Self-direction, Empathy and Intimacy (APA Rationale for a Revised Criterion, 2010). Thus, the

severity of impairment of an individual’s personality functioning is now measured in this four

dimensions on a scale of 0-4, with 0 at normal functioning.

After looking at significant impairments, which Bender, Morey and Skodol (in press)

consider as substrates for possible personality psychopathology, clinicians are able to specify

pervasive pathological traits that are present as long as it isn’t normative to an individual’s

developmental stage or socio-cultural environment and it isn’t solely due to direct physiological

effects if a substance or a general medical condition (APA Rationale for a Revised Criterion,

2010).

In sum, an eccentric individual may fail to meet diagnostic criteria for Shizotypal

personality disorder type but the presence of significant impairment in self and interpersonal

functioning is suffice for diagnosis under Personality Disorder Trait Specified (PDTS) with

eccentricity as the pervasive pathological trait specified. In identity, possible impairments in

personality functioning are confused boundaries between self and others and a distorted self

concept (5th ed., DSM–V; American Psychiatric Association). Impairment in self-direction,

reflects an individual who has “no clear set of internal standards” (5th ed., DSM–V; American

Psychiatric Association). For empathy, an individual may have “pronounced difficulty

understanding impact of own behavior on others” (5th ed., DSM–V; American Psychiatric

Association). For intimacy, ones eccentricity can lead to social isolation. Social encounters can

present an unfamiliar reality to the individual and cause anxiety.

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It is noteworthy that an eccentric has lesser tendency to evolve into an Axis I disorder. Dr.

David Weeks (1995), in studying over a thousand American eccentrics, observed that they are

less prone to mental illness than everyone else.

Adaptive Levels of Eccentricity

Marcus (1992) in the book Lives in Trust posted an interesting argument for future

researchers that he encountered in studying eccentricity: How is eccentricity distinct from a

“unique identity”? (as cited in Rhetoric for Self-Making, 1995, p. 48-49),

Attempts of existing perspectives in personality psychology to observe different aspect of

man follows a pattern that has been projected for about over a half a century ago. Murray and

Kluckhohn (1953) categorized personality as studying what is: ‘(a) like all other men, (b) like

some other men, (c) like no other man’” (as cited in Wikipedia, May 2007, Individual Difference

Psychology, para. 1).

Eccentricity stands at the boundary of personality functioning and personality pathology.

It can be something that is unique to man--that is, identity; or something that doesn’t conform to

man--that is, oddity. The existence of eccentricity is best described by a plane of individuality

(See Figure 1). The plane is defined by conformity at the beginning of individuality and

nonconformity at the rear end. It is a combination of two distinct planes: identity and oddity,

which is divided by eccentricity as the fold line. Identity stands at the part of the plane closest to

conformity while oddity takes the opposite fold close to nonconformity. The more the individual

goes to conformity; the more he loses his identity. The more the individual goes to

nonconformity; the more he tends toward oddity. Eccentricity is the line where identity takes its
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turn to nonconformity and where oddity starts. It is the turn where identity is too different it

deviates from the social norm.

Eccentricity is the maladaptive variant of the FFM trait facet “Actions” which is under

the Openness to Experience domain. As previously defined, eccentricity is “bizarre, odd, and

strange behavior and speech” (DSM-V Web site, 2010, T 03 Shizotypal Personality Disorder

Type, para. 5). “Actions”, on the other hand, is seen as “willingness to try out different activities,

go new places, or eat unusual foods” (NEO-PI-R Manual, Costa and Mcrae, 1992). This trait

scale indicates preference for novelty and variety over familiarity and routine (Costa and

McCrae, 1992). Both adaptive and maladaptive trait includes predilection that depicts defiance of

what is familiar and usual to the society. However, eccentrics don’t have insights to their odd

choices while the adaptive trait, Actions, includes a conscious and healthy preference to be

different from people.

Eccentricity and Actions seem to exist on a continuum. Yet, normality is located in the

middle of the scale. It is even probable that too much individuality in Actions is synonymous to

eccentricity. On that basis, eccentricity can be in both ends of the continuum and Actions, as the

normative aspect, is found at the central point (impairment in interpersonal-functioning

continuum [eccentricity]; See Figure 2). It is a continuum based on choice (will). At the

beginning of the spectrum is a unique individual who engages to odd behavior and speech

erratically without insight to his/her peculiarity. The Schizoid and Schizotypal falls here. The

individuality is merely by impulse. At the central point of normality, a healthy preference for

variety over familiarity and routine is shown (Actions, Costa and McCrae, 1992). Here, odd

behaviors are just manifestations of inclination to engage with unusual things. At the rear end of
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the continuum, an outright defiance of the social norm is depicted. In the case of a Narcissist, it

is a distinction of oneself from the society and unwillingness to be regarded as the same with

everybody else. In a passive-aggressive individual, it is rebellion against social pressure. Both

ends indicate a significant impairment in interpersonal functioning.

Eccentricity is also in a continuum based on individuality. The normative aspect remains

at the center point (impairment in self-functioning continuum [eccentricity]; See Figure 3). At the

beginning of the spectrum, an individual is conforming too much that he/she is like everyone

else. Nothing is distinctive about his/her personality anymore. At middle point of normality, an

individual has unique and peculiar behavior but is capable of compromise for adaptation. At the

end of the spectrum, the person is too individual and too different from majority of people he/she

deviates from social norm. He/she is too individual and has become oblivious of society’s

expectations. Both ends indicate a significant impairment on self functioning.

Guide for Diagnosis

Eccentricity presents itself as a maladaptive aspect of individuality. By integrating the

two continuum models with the “Plane of Individuality”, we are able to identify how eccentricity

can serve as a substrate for impairment in personality (self or interpersonal) functioning

(Integrated plane of individuality; See Figure 4).

The “Integrated Plane of Individuality” indicates conformity at the beginning of the

spectrum and nonconformity at the opposite end. Both of the differentiated planes are retained.

Identity, which now serves as the self functioning plane, and oddity, which now serves as the

interpersonal functioning plane, is still divided by eccentricity as the fold line. Each plane is
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given the corresponding continuum for it, which shows that eccentricity exists at the end of the

self functioning continuum of individuality and the beginning of the interpersonal functioning

continuum of individuality. Identity still stands at the part of the plane closest to conformity

while oddity takes the opposite fold. This depicts a plane where behavior is unique but still

conforms and another plane that shows odd behavior that significantly deviates from norm. The

self functioning plane is differentiated by individuality; while the interpersonal functioning plane

is differentiated by choice.

At the beginning of the self functioning plane and at the end of the interpersonal

functioning plane, the maladaptive patterns don’t fit eccentricity by definition. Nevertheless,

both these maladaptive patterns co-exist in the plane of individuality with eccentricity. By

keeping these maladaptive tendencies on the plane, we are able to distinguish between diverse

odd habits that future patients may display. Thus, making a more valid and accurate diagnosis for

eccentricity.

The first step is to identify which plane the patient’s individuality is inclined to. This is

under the assumption that not all odd habits or problems with individuality that patients will

display are eccentricity. It is only eccentricity when the symptoms fall at the middle part of the

plane. Questions you can ask are: Can he/she still be considered to belong at the plane close to

conformity? Does he/she display a unique identity or an outright oddity? Once you are able to

identify the client’s plane location, specify the patient’s location in that plane’s continuum.

Eccentricity can either be a high tendency on the self functioning continuum or a low tendency

on the interpersonal functioning continuum.

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Assessment Instruments

There is no questionnaire presently available that directly measures eccentricity.

Clinicians can utilize measurements that assess Shizotypal traits alongside eccentricity.

The Impulsive Noncomformity Scale (IN) by Chapman (1984) can be used for assessing

eccentricity. It is a 51-item questionnaire designed to “reveal failure of incorporation to societal

norms...” (Raine, Lencz, and Mednick, 1995). One of eccentricity’s distinct attribute is its non-

conformity to the environment. Using IN, clinicians could gain insight to a patient’s significant

level of non-acquiescence to his/her peers.

Eccentricity can also be measured by Shizotypal Personality scale (STA). It is a 38-item

scale where affirmative responses tend towards high scores (Raine, Lencz, and Mednick, 1995).

Rawlings, Claridge and Freeman (2001) identified four factors of STA labelled: Magical

Thinking, Unusual Perceptual Experiences, Paranoid Suspiciousness and Isolation, and Social

Anxiety. Respectively, severity of the third and the fourth factor will give clinician information

on the patient’s eccentricities.

Assessment can also be aided by observing the presence of eccentricity’s adaptive

variant, Actions through NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI). If the FFM trait is present with

impairments in personality functioning, then it is a valid diagnosis. Five-Factor Model Score

Sheet (FFMSS) can be utilized as well. FFMSS is a 30-item clinician rating form designed to

assess the five domains of FFM and 30 facets of the FFM. Miller et.al (2010) empirically stated

that FFMSS is valid for clinical use (as cited by Widiger & Mullins-Sweatt, 2010).
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Therapeutic Targets

DSM-V proposes that the “maladaptive” variants of personality traits best describe a

personality disorder. It also founded on the assumption that personality functioning impairment

serves as substrate for personality psychopathology” (Bender, Morey, and Skodol (in press), as

cited in APA Rationale for a Revised Criterion, 2010). This implies two therapeutic targets for

personality disorders: (a) help individuals translate their maladaptive traits into their adaptive

aspects (b) normalize personality functioning.

In view of this, DSM-V offers us two paradoxical causes for personality

psychopathology: Maladaptive traits developed from an already impaired personality

functioning, serving as its substrate, or because of these maladaptive traits, impairment in

personality functioning actualized. The first step of treatment should focus on identifying the

cause of the personality disorder. Is it from an impaired personality functioning? Or from a

maladaptive mode of adjustment?

Presently, a drastic change in treatment is required since DSM-IV-TR left off with

treatments that focused on trying to minimize or to get rid of personality disorders which were

viewed as diseases. Treatments for personality disorders as it is now presented in DSM-V require

interventions that will transform learned maladaptive traits into adaptive ones and normalizing

impairments in personality functioning.

For individuals who have significant impairment in self and interpersonal functioning due

to being eccentric, clinician must focus on therapeutic techniques that will translate eccentricity

into its adaptive variant: Actions.

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Conversely, therapy should focus on normalizing personality functioning should it be the

cause for the patients eccentric tendencies. More specifically, identify whether the impairment is

in self functioning or interpersonal functioning or both. If the eccentric has impaired

interpersonal functioning triggered by strong narcissistic needs, his/her eccentricities exist from

belief that he/she is superiorly and inherently different over others. Treatment to normalize

behavior should focus on developing a valid self-image and reality testing about the impact of

own behavior to others. On the other hand, if the eccentric has impaired interpersonal

functioning because of strong oppositional needs, his/her eccentric habits are just means to avoid

social pressure. Treatment should focus on trying to enlighten individuals to social boundaries. If

the individual has impairment in self functioning, treatment should clarify boundaries between

self and others and guide individual to a sound self concept.

If eccentricities exist due to a thought disorder or latent schizophrenia, then treatment

should be treated as described elsewhere. In such case, eccentricities are mere consequences of

psychotic tendencies.

It is important to note that the presence of personality traits, whether adaptive or

maladaptive, may indicate a pervasive coping skill that an individual developed because of an

internal vulnerability (Humphreys, 2001). This internal vulnerability must be pervasive for such

maladaptive mode of adjustment to be consistent and stable in a patient’s life. These signify a

major and pervasive threat that exists against a person’s emotional and social well-being. If we

are exposed to this threat, it may lead to anxiety. It should be a clinicians’ priority to avoid

personality disorder evolving into an Axis-I disorder.

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AN ATTEMPT TO PROVIDE A BOUNDARY FOR INDIVIDUALITY

In treating personality disorders, clinicians should work as surgeons looking at possible

risks to take and consider if the presented factors are worth “operating” on. Clinicians,

figuratively, are operating on a person’s mental immune system and should be careful in

damaging certain immunological capacities counteracting personality pathogens that may be as

recurrent and as pervasive as the consistent coping skill that counters it.

Personality, albeit maladaptive or adaptive, serves as a sign of internal imbalance that

should be another focus of therapy. Future researchers should correlate pathological traits and

significant impairments in the patient’s personality functioning. Like a common cold being a sign

for a cold virus, our personality dysfunction may point towards the presence of mental viruses

that should instead be the focus of clinical treatment.

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AN ATTEMPT TO PROVIDE A BOUNDARY FOR INDIVIDUALITY

References

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(4th ed). Washington.

American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders

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Battaglia, D. et.al, (1995) "On Eccentricity". Rhetorics of self-making. University of California

Press. pp. 48–49.

Carson, S.H. (2011). Your Creative Brain: Seven Steps to Maximize Imagination, Productivity

and Innovation in Your Life. Retrieved from http://www.jaynejubb.com/OTB/june2011

newsletter.pdf

Claridge, G. (1998). Creativity and madness: Clues from modern psychiatric diagnosis. In A.

Steptoe, A. Steptoe (Eds.) , Genius and mind: Studies of creativity and temperament (pp.

227-250).

Costa, P. T., Jr., & McCrae, R. R. (1985). The NEO personality inventory manual. Odessa, FL:

Psychological Assessment Resources.

DSM-5 Web site. (2010). Brief Rationale and Status of the Development of a Trait Dimensional

Diagnostic System for Personality Disorder in DSM-5. Retrieved from

http://www.dsm5.org/Documents/APA%20Trait%20System%20Rationale.pdf

DSM-5 Web site. (2010). T 03 Shizotypal Personality Disorder Type. Retrieved from

http://www.dsm5.org/ProposedRevisions/Pages/proposedrevision.aspx?rid=442

DSM-5 Web site. (2011). T 03 Shizotypal Personality Disorder. Retrieved from

http://www.dsm5.org/ProposedRevisions/Pages/proposedrevision.aspx?rid=15
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Hayward, B. A. (2007). Cluster A personality disorders: Considering the 'odd-eccentric' in

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Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Eleventh Edition copyright © 2008 by Merriam-

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Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition. Retrieved September 20, 2011, from

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Widiger, T. A., & Mullins-Sweatt, S. N. (2010). Clinical utility of a dimensional model of

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Table 1
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Synonyms for eccentricity

Erratical
an irrational or unpredictable idea or desire / a sudden,
caprice
impulsive, and seemingly unmotivated notion or action

Unpredictable, Impulsive
freakishness markedly strange or abnormal : WHIMSICAL, CAPRICIOUS

following one's own capricious, wanton, or depraved

waywardness
inclinations : UNGOVERNABLE

subject to erratic behavior or unpredictable change / a

whimsicality capricious or eccentric and often sudden idea or turn of the
mind

Manner
strikingly out of the ordinary / odd, extravagant, or eccentric in
Bizarre
style or mode
a minor flaw or shortcoming in character or behavior: Style or
Foible
WEAKNESS mode
Weirdness of strange or extraordinary character

Internal
a peculiarity of constitution or temperament : an
idiosyncrasy
individualizing characteristic or quality / ECCENTRICITY
kink a mental or physical peculiarity Distinct
peculiarity a distinguishing characteristic: ODDITY, QUIRK part of a
Quirk a peculiar trait : IDIOSYNCRASY ACCIDENT, VAGARY whole
a separate unit / unusual or distinctive manner or behavior :
singularity
PECULIARITY

Societal
Entity

abnormal deviating from the normal or average

Aberrant fact or an instance of being aberrant especially from a moral
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AN ATTEMPT TO PROVIDE A BOUNDARY FOR INDIVIDUALITY

standard or normal state.

anomaly deviation from the common rule : IRREGULARITY
heretic a dissenter from established religious dogma
not being or acting in accord with laws, rules, or established
irregular custom *irregular conduct* b : not conforming to the usual
pattern of inflection
refusal to conform to an established or conventional creed, rule,
nonconformity
or practice
separated from a set or series / not regular, expected, or planned
odd / having an out-of-the-way location : REMOTE / differing
markedly from the usual or ordinary or accepted : PECULIAR

Deviating From a Norm, Standard or Expectation

strikingly out of the ordinary : BIZARRE / exceeding proper
Outlandishness
or reasonable limits or standards / remote from civilization
differing in some odd way from what is usual or normal /
Queerness
ECCENTRIC, UNCONVENTIONAL
not conventional / not bound by or in accordance with
unconventional
convention / being out of the ordinary
not orthodox (as to conforming to established doctrine
unorthodox
especially in religion)
waywardness opposite to what is desired or expected
Strange not before known, heard, or seen / UNFAMILIAR

Note. The synonyms for the word “eccentricity” are taken from Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus,
Third Edition, retrieved from Thesaurus.com website ( http://thesaurus.com/browse/eccentricity).
On the other hand, definitions are taken from Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Eleventh
Edition (2008) by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.
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Plane of
Individuality

ity
Nonc
rm
Confo

Identity Oddity

o n
ity

fo rm
Eccentricity
Fold
Figure 1. Identity stands at the fold closest to conformity while oddity takes the opposite fold.

The more the individual goes to conformity; the more he loses his identity. The more the

individual goes to nonconformity; the more he tends toward oddity. Eccentricity is the line where

identity takes its turn to nonconformity and where oddity starts. It is the turn where identity is too

individual it becomes a defiance of the social norm instead of an expression of uniqueness.

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Impairment in interpersonal functioning continuum

(eccentricity)

Oddity
Erratica Defianc
l e

Figure 2. This is a continuum of oddity based on choice (will). At the beginning of the spectrum

is a unique individual who engages to odd behavior and speech erratically without insight to

his/her peculiarity. The Schizoid and Schizotypal falls here. The individuality is merely by

impulse. At the central point of normality, a healthy preference for variety over familiarity and

routine is shown (Actions, Costa and McCrae, 1992). Here, odd behaviors are just manifestations

of predilection to engage with unusual things. At the rear end of the continuum, an outright

defiance of the social norm is depicted. In the case of a Narcissist, it is a distinction of oneself

from the society and unwillingness to be like everybody else. In a passive-aggressive individual,

it is rebellion against social pressure. Both ends indicate a significant impairment in

interpersonal functioning.
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Impairment in self functioning continuum (eccentricity)

Identity
Over Over
Conformity Individuality

Figure 3. This is a continuum based on identity. The normative aspect is at the center point. At

the beginning of the spectrum, an individual is conforming too much that he/she is like everyone

else. Nothing is distinctive about his/her personality anymore. On the end of the spectrum, a

person is too individual and different from majority of people he/she deviates from social norm.

He/she is too individual he/she has become oblivious of society’s expectations. Both ends

indicate a significant impairment on self functioning.

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Plane of
Oddity
Self Individuality Errati
cal
Defianc
e

Functioni
ng
Identity Oddity

Over
Identity
Over
Interperson
Confor Individualit
al
mity y
Eccentricity
Functioning
Fold

Figure 4. This is an integration of the plane and the continuum models on identity and

oddity. It indicates conformity at the beginning of the spectrum and nonconformity at the

opposite end. Identity and oddity are two distinct planes. Identity, which serves as the self

functioning plane, and oddity, which serves as the interpersonal functioning plane, are divided by

eccentricity as the fold line. It serves as a meeting point for both planes. Each plane is measured

by a unique continuum guided by a distinct principle. The self functioning plane is differentiated

by individuality; while the interpersonal functioning plane is differentiated by will.