First off, who was that moderator? It is obvious he is not a board-certified psychiatrist, nor does he have any command of the DSM-IV’s (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) classification of Personality Disorders. He did absolutely nothing to facilitate the ladies’ understanding of their character’s psychopathology. Yes, ladies and gents, this is what we are attracted to… the drama. Guess what, each one of the ladies has something that aligns itself with what is in all of us. Gay or straight, this drama is hot, realistic, and addictive; even to the broken-hearted and lonely. Girls and boys, don’t be afraid to look into Pandora’s Box and see what reflects back to you. This show commands self-introspection.
Ground Rules: (The essence of the Atlanta Housewives)
- Personality disorders (PD) are ego-syntonic, which means the individual likes being dysfunctional.
- The personalities are always RIGID (nonmalleable).People with a personality disorder lack empathy (Tears are not the mark of empathy. Remember this fact, and you won’t be fooled by your next unfaithful lover).
- Those with personality disorders are developmentally fixated at an immature phase.
- They usually have difficulties in love, work and most other places.
This show has five different characters and five prominent personality disorders. After an in-depth analysis, here are the five I have medically identified from this series (Please note that none of the characters are my patients and my opinions are for entertainment purposes only):
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder
- Histrionic Personality Disorder
- Dependent Personality Disorder
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Just to keep your appetite wet, I will only reveal one per week. This week’s flavor is…
Shere’e
While most would automatically conclude that Shere’e has Narcissistic Personality Disorder, that is not my clinical opinion. While this character may show signs of narcissism, I believe she meets most of the criteria for Histrionic Personality Disorder.
Check this out:
This character is dramatic, emotional, and impressionistic in her style. (That fashion show was a mess. Lisa said it and I certainly agree.) The defense mechanisms she employs in most situations are regression, dissociation, denial, and externalization. All of the fighting is a sign of an unconscious conflict . I would like to further explore the lesbian theory mentioned in last night’s episode. Many may not know it, but there are people that convert, sexually, later in life. This characters behaviors are not cute; they are empty. However, she and her friend Dwight do keep us entertained. (By the way, his make-up should come down a shade or two. He looks casket sharp, if you know what I mean.)
Shere’e, I like you, but there are signs of personality vulnerabilites. This character could stand some psychotherapy to get to the core of the issues. After all,dealing with divorce,single parenthood, and the need to be accepted by the world can be difficult tasks. That’s all for now!
One down and 4 to go. Stay tuned; Shere’e may not be the only conflicted character.
Enough Said,
Dr. O
What’s Your Current Mental Status?… Click on the link below and take Dr.O’s Mental Evaluation Screening to assess your current mental status:
http://www.drowensmd.com/index.php?option=com_php&Itemid=7









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