Personality Couch

Epizodes

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  Ep 60: Hysteria, Histrionic, & the Demonization of Women 11.08.2026 30min

  Hysteria, Histrionic, & the Demonization of Women | Ep. 60 🎬In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) discuss the horrible and inhumane history of hysteria in medicine by investigating how Dr. Jean Martin Charcot used the Salpetriere Hospital in France as a “Museum of Living Pathology” to showcase his hypnotic and showman skills over hysterical women. We look at Freud’s contribution to hysteria and the oppressive, patriarchal society of the 1880s that led to these unexplained symptoms in women. We continue the discussion by walking through the DSM’s hysteria to histrionic personality evolution before sharing our own thoughts and opinions about this condition’s stigmatized name and the maltreatment of women in medicine throughout history.  ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️  Chapters00:00 Introduction & History of Hysteria01:39 Hysteria as a Medical Condition (Charcot)04:00 Could Men Have Hysteria?04:33 Women & Society in 188006:14 Charcot Treats Hysterics at Salpetriere Hospital06:51 Dermagraphism Defined07:27 Charcot’s “Museum of Living Pathology”09:25 Freud’s Contribution to Hysteria11:58 Was Freud Hysterical?14:47 The Societal Context for Hysteria16:02 The Disappearance of Hysteria in the 1900s        16:46 WW I’s Impact on Hysteria        17:37 Advances in Medicine and Neuroscience18:08 Hysteria Makes a Comeback in the DSM I in 1952!20:04 DSM I (1952): Hysteria as Symptoms without Medical Basis20:16 DSM II (1968) Hysterical Neurosis 20:34 Conversion Type21:19 Dissociative Type21:55 DSM II (1968) Hysterical Personality23:24 Hysterical Personality vs Symptoms23:47 DSM III Forward: Somaticization, Dissociation, Histrionic, & Borderline Personality24:40 Our Thoughts        25:24 Is Antisocial the Masculine Histrionic Counterpart?         27:55 Did Freud & Charcot Know More Than They Let On? 29:40 Conclusion 👩‍⚕️Work With Us! https://www.questpsych.org/  Personality Couch Links🛋️Websitehttps://www.personalitycouch.com/ ✍️Blog (& Podcast Episode References)https://personalitycouch.com/blog/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/personalitycouch/ Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/personalitycouch
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  Ep 59: OCPD vs Schizoid Personality 28.07.2026 29min

  Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder vs Schizoid Personality | Ep. 59 🎬In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) unpack the nuanced differences and overlaps between obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) and schizoid personality disorder(SzPD). We investigate each personality’s core drives, emotional experiences, and defense mechanisms, using a psychodynamic lens to capture these very different (yet similar) personalities.  ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️ Chapters00:00 Intro & Definitions        01:27 OCPD Defined        02:20 Schizoid Defined (DSM)        02:48 Schizoid Defined (Psychodynamic)03:10 OCPD vs Antisocial04:04 OCPD vs Narcissism04:52 OCPD vs Schizoid (DSM)05:40 OCPD vs Schizoid (Psychodynamic)05:54 OCPD vs Schizoid (Nancy McWilliams)        06:52 Emotionality & Flatness        07:55 Therapeutic Approach09:52 Differing Inner Needs (PDM)        10:06 OCPD Child: Orderly, Aggressive, Irritable        10:25 Schizoid Child: Sensitive, Shy, Overstimulated        11:02 Emotions in OCPD: Anger, Guilt, Anxiety, Shame, Fear        11:32 Emotions in Schizoid: Emotional Pain, Overstimulation        12:10 Defense Mechanisms in OCPD        13:03 Defense Mechanisms in Schizoid13:57 Maladaptive Beliefs (PDM)        14:12 OCPD: Feelings Are Dangerous        14:25 Schizoid: Dependency & Love Are Dangerous        15:16 OCPD: Others Are Less Precise        16:01 Schizoid: Others Are Impinging and Dangerous16:44 Internal Conflicts (PDM)        16:51 OCPD: To Comply or Defy        17:13 Schizoid: Fearing Yet Yearning for Closeness17:29 Are Schizoids Afraid?17:45 Millon’s OC-Schizoid Mixed Subtypes        18:02 Affectless Schizoid        20:53 Parsimonious Constricted Compulsive23:23 Our Thoughts        24:10 Enneagram 5 & Schizoid        24:38 Enneagram 1 & OCPD        24:54 Enneagram 6 & OCPD        25:54 Is OCPD a Core Personality? 27:18 Problems with Therapy & Self-Discovery in OCPD28:39 Summary & Closing  👩‍⚕️Work With Us! https://www.questpsych.org/  Personality Couch Links🛋️Websitehttps://www.personalitycouch.com/ ✍️Blog (& Podcast Episode References)https://personalitycouch.com/blog/obsessive-compulsive-vs-schizoid/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/personalitycouch/ Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/personalitycouch
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  Ep 58: The 6 Obsessive Compulsive Personality Subtypes 14.07.2026 33min

  The 6 Obsessive Compulsive Personality Subtypes | Ep. 58 🎬In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) unpack the 6 subtypes of OCPD according to Dr. Theodore Millon. At the mild level, we explore the Conscientiously Reliable (Dependent Features) and the Perfectionistically Reliable, while at the Moderate level, we look at Bureaucratically Constricted (Narcissistic Features) and the Parsimoniously Constricted (Schizoid, Avoidant Features) . We conclude by discussing the more severe subtypes like Puritanical Compulsive (Paranoid Features) and the Bedeviled Compulsive (Negativistic) before sharing our thoughts and experiences in clinical practice.   ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️ Chapters00:00 Intro & Definition of OCPD01:34 When Perfectionism is Valuable03:17 Compulsive Overlaps with All Personalities06:13 Intro to Millon’s Personality Theory06:27 The Mild Obsessive Compulsive Personality      07:31 Conscientiously Reliable      10:17 Perfectionistically Reliable12:12 Our Personal and Clinical Experience 14:16 Comparing & Contrasting Mild Obsessive Compulsive Subtypes15:15 The Moderate Obsessive Compulsive Personality      16:33 The Bureaucratically Constricted       19:31 Parsimoniously Constricted 21:00 Millon’s Case Named Jane22:38 The Severe Obsessive Compulsive Personality      23:15 Puritanical Compulsive      27:27 Bedeviled Compulsive31:28 Comparing & Contrasting the 3 Severity Levels32:28 Summary & Ending 👩‍⚕️Work With Us! https://www.questpsych.org/  Personality Couch Links🛋️Websitehttps://www.personalitycouch.com/ ✍️Blog (& Podcast Episode References)https://personalitycouch.com/blog/obsessive-compulsive-personality-subtypes/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/personalitycouch/ Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/personalitycouch
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  Ep 57: OCPD: Secrets Inside the Psyche 30.06.2026 29min

  psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) explore the inner conflict in those with OCPD: to comply or to defy. We look at defense mechanisms and early attachment (and even potty training!) that drives their fixated behavior.  ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️ Chapters00:00 Intro & Definition of OCPD02:47 Obsessive vs Compulsive Defined04:04 OCPD vs OCD: Ego-syntonic vs ego-dystonic05:29 The Internal Dysfunction in OCPD05:58 The Role of Potty Training in Developing OCPD08:31 Why is Potty Training Connected with Personality? 10:38 The Central Conflict of Defying or Complying14:16 Defense Mechanisms in OCPD      14:20 Reaction Formation Defined      15:29 Isolation of Affect      16:21 Emotional Exceptions: Righteous Anger & Shame18:21 OCPD vs Schizoid 19:36 OCPD vs Psychosis20:26 Compulsive Behavior of Undoing20:53 When Compulsive Behavior is Pathological (and Not)21:58 Compulsivity and Omnipotent Control 22:46 Thoughts Behind Compulsive Behavior24:28 Our Thoughts & Clinical Experience with OCPD      25:23 The “Compulsive Personality Shell”      26:31 Compulsive Flavors in Other Personalities28:32 Summary & Conclusion 👩‍⚕️Work With Us! https://www.questpsych.org/  Personality Couch Links🛋️Websitehttps://www.personalitycouch.com/ ✍️Blog (& Podcast Episode References)https://personalitycouch.com/blog/obsessive-compulsive-personality-disorder-diagnostic-criteria/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/personalitycouch/ Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/personalitycouch
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  Ep 56: Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder DSM Symptoms 16.06.2026 32min

  🎬In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) explore the straightforward history of this condition, looking at fun names in history like anankastic and ambitendency. We also unpack the evolution of OCPD in the DSM, highlighting how our own compulsivity shows up in the naming and renaming of the disorder throughout history. We look in detail at the 8 criteria in the DSM and share our thoughts and criticisms about the DSM’s portrayal of this condition.   ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️ Chapters00:00 Intro & History of OCPD00:35 The Term “Zwang” 01:21 The Term “Anankastic”02:08 The Term “Psychasthenia State”02:31 Freud’s Anal Character02:57 OCPD vs OCD 04:17 The Terms: Sensitive, Insecure, Ambitendency04:33 The Terms: Hoarding Orientation, Obsessive Character, Rigid Styles05:53 History of OCPD in the DSM     06:05 OCPD in the DSM I      06:31 OCPD in the DSM II     07:08 New OCPD Criteria in the DSM III      09:07 New OCPD Criteria in the DSM III-R     11:10 OCPD in the DSM IV 12:06 OCPD in the DSM 5     13:04 Criterion 1: Order, Perfectionism, Control     15:44 Criterion 2: Extreme Perfectionism     17:51 Criterion 3: Work Focused     21:15 Criterion 4: Inflexible Values     23:11 Criterion 5: Hoarding     24:33 Criterion 6: Controlling     26:03 Criterion 7: Financially Stingy     26:59 Criterion 8: Rigidity27:44 Our Thoughts & Opinions30:11 Summary & Conclusion  👩‍⚕️Work With Us! https://www.questpsych.org/  Personality Couch Links🛋️Websitehttps://www.personalitycouch.com/ ✍️Blog (& Podcast Episode References)https://personalitycouch.com/blog/obsessive-compulsive-personality-disorder-diagnostic-criteria/  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/personalitycouch/ Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/personalitycouch #mentalhealthpodcast #personalitydisorder #personalitydisorders #personalitytypes #personalitypsychology #personality #clinicalpsychology #mentalhealthprofessionals #mentalhealth #narcissism #psychology #psychopathology #DSM #psychodynamic #psychoanalysis #personalitydevelopment #personalitytrait #personalitytraits #ocpd #obsessivecompulsive #perfectionism #perfectionismrecovery #rigidity #compulsive #compulsivebehavior #mentalhealthawareness
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  Ep 55: The Dark Schizoid | When Detachment Turns Psychopathic 02.06.2026 40min

  🎬In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) explore the complex interplay between antisocial and schizoid personalities, highlighting their similarities, differences, and potential for danger when combined. Using the well-documented case of Scottish serial killer Dennis Nilsen, we analyze how these personality traits can manifest in deadly ways, especially when mixed with other dark features. ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️ Chapters00:00 Intro00:37 Schizoid Personality Defined01:03 Antisocial Personality Defined01:23 How Schizoid and Antisocial Differ 02:11 Schizoid & Antisocial Similarities          02:22 Neglectful Childhood           02:52 Unresponsive to Environment          04:10 Non-Conforming           05:13 Aloofness05:54 The Nomadic Antisocial Defined (Schizoid Overlap)07:25 When Nomadic Antisocials Turn Dark09:26 When Detachment Turns Psychopathic10:27 Three Personalities Associated with Violent Crime13:12 Serial Killer & Necrophile: Dennis Nilsen | Our Disclaimer14:35 Dennis Nilsen’s Backstory 17:56 Nilsen’s First Murder19:27 Our Psychoanalysis of The Murders           22:11 Did He Want to Get Caught?           23:34 Attracted to Men Resembling His Sister           24:20 Rejection of Same-Sex Attraction           25:43 Alcohol's Role in Murder           27:04 Dissection, Disposal, & Dissociation           28:25 Boiling the Skulls?           31:20 Trial & Psych Evaluators           32:07 Detachment & Curiosity: A Schizoid Dynamic           33:30 Would Prison Meet Social Needs?           35:30 Was Nilsen a Passive Affectionless Psychopath?37:50 Enneagram Antisocial & Schizoid Overlap38:56 Summary & Conclusion  👩‍⚕️Work with Us!https://www.questpsych.org/ Personality Couch Links🛋️Websitehttps://www.personalitycouch.com/ ✍️Blog (& Podcast Episode References)https://personalitycouch.com/blog/antisocial-personality-vs-psychopathy/ Podcasts Referenced:https://youtu.be/VHWPYjyKpdw Instagram https://www.instagram.com/personalitycouch/ Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/personalitycouch
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  Ep 54: Antisocial vs Narcissistic Personality | What's the Difference? 19.05.2026 34min

  Antisocial vs Narcissistic Personality | What's the Difference? | Ep. 54 🎬In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) explore the distinctions between antisocial personality and narcissistic personality by analyzing DSM diagnoses, Stones' Spectrum of Dark Personalities, and subtypes from Dr. Theodore Millon like: Reputation-Defending Devious, Exploitative Egotist,  and the Unprincipled Narcissist.  ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️ Chapters00:00 Introduction and Definitions         00:32 Narcissism Defined        02:10 Antisocial Defined02:25 Antisocial Behaviors: Psychoanalysis of Ourselves07:53 Antisocial Developmental Stage09:11 Narcissistic Developmental Stage10:37 The DSM on Antisocial vs Narcissistic PDs12:27 Passive Parasitic vs Aggressive Antisocial Types13:17 Michael Stone’s Spectrum of Dark Personalities13:43 Malignant Narcissism Defined15:31 Active vs Passive Entitlement16:14 Millon’s Theory: ASPD vs NPD21:55 Millon’s Subtypes        22:21 Reputation Defending Devious         23:07 Exploitative Egoist        24:13 Unprincipled Narcissist25:40: Our Thoughts & Opinions31:28 Ego Cookies in Narci vs Antisocial31:56 Summary & Conclusion 👩‍⚕️Work With Us! https://www.questpsych.org/  Personality Couch Links🛋️Websitehttps://www.personalitycouch.com/ ✍️Blog (& Podcast Episode References)https://personalitycouch.com/blog/antisocial-personality-vs-psychopathy/
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  Ep 53: Antisocial Personality vs Psychopathy | What's the Difference? 05.05.2026 28min

  🎬In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) explore the complex distinctions between antisocial personality and psychopathy, delving into historical terminology, key theories, and nuanced subtypes. This episode offers a deep dive into dark personality traits and how they differ. ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️ Chapters00:00 Intro & History of Antisocial vs Psychopathy        00:36 Psychopath and Sociopath Defined        01:54 Cleckley’s Mask of Sanity03:21 Psychodynamic Theory on Psychopathy vs Antisocial04:17 The DSM on Psychopathy vs Antisocial04:35 Michael Stone’s Negative Personality Spectrum         05:15 Level 1: Negative Personalities         05:41 Level 2: Narcissistic & Paranoid Personality Disorders         07:10 Level 3: Malignant Narcissism         08:43 Level 4: Antisocial Personality Disorder         09:28 Level 5: Psychopathy         10:20 Level 6: Sadistic Personality12:32 Robert Hare's Psychopathy Checklist13:54 Hare’s Psychopathy Checklist vs DSM Antisocial 17:20 Millon’s Theory on Psychopathy         19:30 Spineless Psychopath         19:43 Unprincipled Psychopath (Narcissistic Core)          19:51 Disingenuous Psychopath (Histrionic Core)         21:13 Risk-Taking Psychopath (Histrionic & Antisocial Features)         21:26 Covetous Psychopath (Antisocial Core)         21:57 Malignant Psychopath (Paranoid Core)         22:10 Abrasive Psychopath (Negativistic & Paranoid Features)         22:21 Explosive Psychopath (Sadistic Core, Borderline Features)         22:58 Malevolent Psychopath (Paranoid & Sadistic Features)         23:34 Tyrannical Psychopath (Negativistic & Sadistic Features)24:19 Our Thoughts27:14 Summary & Conclusion
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  Ep 52: The 6 Antisocial Subtypes 21.04.2026 44min

  🎬In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) unpack the passive-parasitic and aggressive subtypes from history before jumping into Dr. Theodore Millon’s 6 subtypes. At the mild level, we look at: the Covetously Aggrandizing & Disaffected Aggrandizing Antisocials. At the moderate level, we explore the Risk-Taking Devious and Reputation-Defending Devious Antisocials. At the severe/disordered level, we discuss the Nomadic & Malevolent Antisocial Subtypes. We end with our thoughts and opinions about the line for disorder and explain why the antisocial personality is so challenging to understand.  ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️ Chapters0:00 Intro to Antisocial’s Historical Names02:16 Are antisocials born or made (psychopath vs sociopath)? 03:14 Passive-parasitic and Aggressive Antisocials04:32 What is a Normal Antisocial Personality?          04:40 The Adventurer          05:45 The Unconventional Antisocial  08:28 Intro to Millon’s 6 Subtypes08:48 Mild Level: Aggrandizing Antisocial          09:59 Does Dominance Fill an Inner Void?          10:52 The Covetously Aggrandizing Antisocial           11:22 Criminal Behavior at the Mild Level          15:11 The Disaffected Aggrandizing Antisocial          17:06 Proneness to Addiction          18:11 Proneness to Infidelity          19:02 Contrasting the Mild Types20:25 Moderate Level: The Devious Antisocial          21:39 Risk-Taking Devious (Histrionic & Turbulent Features)          25:56 Reputation-Defending Antisocial (Narcissistic & Sadistic Features)          27:24 Proneness to Criminal Behavior           28:02 Relationship & Work Challenges          29:17 What Are They Defending?31:17 Severe Level: Antisocial Personality Disorder          31:45 Nomadic Antisocial (Schizoid & Avoidant Features)          33:18 Doom & Invincibility Focus          36:54 Malevolent Antisocial (Sadistic & Paranoid Features)41:49 Our Thoughts & Opinions43:46 Summary & Conclusion
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  Ep 51: A New Psychoanalysis of Antisocial Personality Disorder 07.04.2026 31min

  🎬In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) dive deep into the complex inner world of antisocial personality disorder, challenging the traditional DSM view and exploring psychoanalytic theory to uncover the internal processes behind antisocial behaviors. This episode is essential for clinicians, students, and anyone interested in understanding the motivations and defenses of antisocial individuals. ⚠️Note: this podcast does not constitute a professional relationship. If you're in need of professional help, please seek out appropriate resources in your area. ⚠️ Chapters00:00 Intro & Limitations of Antisocial in DSM02:48 Causes of Antisocial Personality     03:30 Genetic Studies     05:21 Environmental Studies07:34 Attachment & Antisocial Personality12:23 Inside the Antisocial’s Psyche:      12:29 Depression & Emptiness     14:55 Shame & Self-Importance17:09 Defense Mechanisms in the Antisocial     17:42 Omnipotent Control     20:54 Projective Identification     21:49 Dissociation      23:26 Acting Out 26:34 Biological & Neuropsychological Processes of Antisocials 28:37 Perverse & Distorted Sexuality in Antisocials30:07 Summary & Conclusion
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  Ep 50: Antisocial Personality: Everything I Learned is Wrong 24.03.2026 41min

  In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) unpack some of our difficulties understanding antisocial personality disorder in how it combines psychology, morality, philosophy, and societal judgment. We focus on: where’s the line for disorder; how can we diagnose without judgment; and what does this personality look like when it’s not disordered? We pull from historical examples of antisocial types in specialized roles and also hypothesize that America might have transitioned from a narcissistic nation to an antisocial one.  🆘In need of psychodynamic therapy or a psychological evaluation? OR are you a provider stuck on a tricky case? To schedule with us, please visit the practice website and fill out the inquiry form! 👉https://www.questpsych.org. Clinicians use the email listed on the website.   Chapters00:00 Introduction to Antisocial Personality & DSM Problems02:46 Antisocial Personality Defined in the PDM07:02 Where’s the Disorder Line?17:29 Other Dark & Criminal Personalities21:08 Morality & Antisocial Traits in Specialized Professions23:37 Are We An Antisocial Society in America?30:43 Are Antisocials Treatable?34:37 Holding Empathy & Accountability for Antisocials40:00 Closing Quote
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  Ep 49: Antisocial Personality: The DSM Trash Can Diagnosis for Criminals? 10.03.2026 29min

  In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) begin our much-awaited series on antisocial personality disorder! In the DSM, antisocial personality is the only diagnosis that includes law-breaking as a criterion. But surely all criminals can’t have the same personality, right? In this episode, we break down its stigmatized history while sharing our thoughts and opinions about the DSM’s limitations. We take a critical look at each of the DSM’s 7 criteria, while also discussing the overlap with other disorders like narcissism, psychopathy, and the sadistic personality.  🆘In need of psychodynamic therapy or a psychological evaluation? OR are you a provider stuck on a tricky case? To schedule with us, please visit the practice website and fill out the inquiry form! 👉https://www.questpsych.org. Clinicians use the email listed on the website.   Chapters00:00 Introduction & History of Antisocial Personality Disorder05:21 DSM Criteria for Antisocial Personality Disorder     07:06: Criterion 1: Unlawful Behavior     09:32: Criterion 2: Deceitfulness & Manipulation       12:49 Criterion 3: Impulsivity      15:27 Criterion 4: Irritability & Aggression     16:21 Criterion 5: Disregard for Safety     17:44 Criterion 6: Irresponsibility       20:08 Criterion 7: Lack of Remorse21:42 Antisocial Personality & Aging25:05 Our Critiques & Thoughts 
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  Ep 48: The 4 Attachment Styles and Avoidant Personality 24.02.2026 23min

  In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) unpack attachment and its relationship with avoidant personality disorder. We explore the four main attachment styles: secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized, discussing how these styles manifest in adult relationships. We highlight the nuances of avoidant personality disorder, suggesting that individuals may present as avoidantly attached but have underlying anxious tendencies. We end by discussing some interesting research on adult attachment and coregulation with a partner, suggesting that attachment is fluid and can change depending on the relationship homeostasis.  🆘In need of psychodynamic therapy or a psychological evaluation? OR are you a provider stuck on a tricky case? To schedule with us, please visit the practice website and fill out the inquiry form! 👉https://www.questpsych.org. Clinicians use the email listed on the website.   Chapters00:00 Intro to Attachment & Attachment Styles05:15 Secure Attachment06:08 Anxious Attachment09:08 Avoidant Attachment13:09 Disorganized Attachment 14:38 Attachment in Adulthood 16:54 Avoidant Personality Disorder and Attachment Dynamics22:22 Summary & Conclusion
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  Ep 47: Avoidant Personality | The 6 Subtypes 10.02.2026 27min

  In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) dive into Avoidant Personality Disorder, exploring Dr. Theodore Millon's six subtypes. We discuss a few interesting historical names before jumping into the characteristics of mild (Anxiously & Imaginatively shy); moderate (Hypersensitively & Phobicly Reticent); and severe (Conflicted & Self-Deserting) subtypes. Our conversation also critiques Millon's work, questioning the distinctiveness of avoidant traits compared to other personality disorders, and we invite listeners/viewers to share their thoughts and opinions. 🆘In need of psychodynamic therapy or a psychological evaluation? OR are you a provider stuck on a tricky case? To schedule with us, please visit the practice website and fill out the inquiry form! 👉https://www.questpsych.org. Clinicians use the email listed on the website.   Chapters00:00 Introduction & Historical Names05:18 Millon's Six Subtypes of Avoidant Personality5:38 Mild Type Overview      6:44 Anxiously Shy Type      9:14 Imaginatively Shy Type12:05 Moderate Level Overview      12:28 Hypersensitively Reticent Type      14:31 Phobicly Reticent Type16:55 Severe Level Overview      17:29 Conflicted Avoidant Type      19:40 Self-Deserting Avoidant Type22:21 Our Opinions About the Subtypes26:14 Summary & Conclusion
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  Ep 46: Did the DSM Get it Wrong? | A New Perspective on Avoidant Personality 27.01.2026 19min

  In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, licensed clinical psychologist Doc Bok unpacks the historical context of Avoidant Personality Disorder (APD), exploring the ongoing debate about its classification in the DSM. This episode discusses the contributions of Theodore Millon, the controversies that arose during the introduction of APD, and the implications of trauma and sociopolitical culture on personality development. The episode concludes with proposing alternative classification systems, including the Enneagram, the psychodynamic phobic character, and avoidant personality as a problematic trait versus a disorder.  🆘In need of psychodynamic therapy or a psychological evaluation? OR are you a provider stuck on a tricky case? To schedule with us, please visit the practice website and fill out the inquiry form! 👉https://www.questpsych.org. Clinicians use the email listed on the website.   Chapters00:00 Introduction to Avoidant Personality Disorder02:32 Millon, the DSM, and Controversy 05:47 The 1960s & Personality Development09:37 Avoidant Traits, Trauma, & Alternative Views18:08 Summary & Conclusion
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  Ep 45: Avoidant Personality | Schizoid's Close Cousin 13.01.2026 36min

  In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) unpack the DSM’s Avoidant Personality Disorder (AvPd), exploring its hotly debated history, the DSM criteria, and its overlap with social anxiety. We discuss the developmental aspects of AvPd, the challenges of low self-esteem with this disorder, and how it can cause problems in employment. We end with our own unfiltered thoughts on whether or not we think it should be a diagnosis, questioning the zeitgeist in which it was coined, the lack of historical research, and its overlap with multiple other personality disorders.   🆘In need of psychodynamic therapy or a psychological evaluation? OR are you a provider stuck on a tricky case? To schedule with us, please visit the practice website and fill out the inquiry form! 👉https://www.questpsych.org/ (Clinicians use the email listed on the website.) Chapters00:00 Intro, History, & Controversy03:42 Avoidant Personality Disorder: DSM       05:41 Social Inhibition and Fear of Criticism       08:14 Intimacy Issues and Fantasy        10:41 Self-Perception and Feelings of Inadequacy       14:49 Taking Risks and Employment Issues17:09 Developmental Implications of Avoidant Personality19:04 Avoidant Personality vs Social Anxiety24:29 Unfiltered Thoughts on Avoidant Personality Disorder35:10 Summary & Conclusion
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  Ep 44: The 3 Most Unstable Personalities | Schizotypal, Borderline, & Paranoid 30.12.2025 35min

  In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) explore the 3 most unstable personality disorders: schizotypal, borderline, and paranoid. All 3 types are at risk of psychosis. We first discuss historical personality classifications of neurotic, psychotic, and borderline, highlighting that the borderline space between neurotic and psychotic is the most prone to instability. This borderline space is where schizotypal, borderline, and paranoid personalities sit. We discuss the risky traits of each personality, including cognitive slippage, emotional instability, and extreme rigidity. We also discuss some of our thoughts and experiences in diagnosing these rather tricky disorders! 🆘Are you a clinician stuck on a case? To schedule a consultation, please visit the practice website! 👉https://www.questpsych.org/ Chapters 00:00 Intro & Psychodynamic Personality Organization      02:31 Neurotic Personality Organization      04:47 Psychotic Personality Organization      05:48 Borderline Personality Organization07:57 Schizotypal Personality & Instability      08:57 Why Personalities Are Unstable (according to Millon)      13:55 Personalities that Coexist with Schizotypal16:30 Borderline Personality & Instability      21:16 Personalities that Coexist with Borderline 23:18 Paranoid Personality & Instability      26:52 Personalities that Coexist with Paranoid30:18 Our Experiences with Diagnosing Unstable Personalities33:39 Summary & Conclusion
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  Ep 43: The 6 Schizotypal Subtypes Explained 16.12.2025 32min

  In this episode of The Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) unpack the 6 subtypes of schizotypal personality disorder, according to Dr. Theodore Millon. We outline Millon’s take on “structurally defective structures” as being at risk of falling apart into psychosis at all levels of functioning, with the most severe levels of schizotypal deteriorating into schizophrenia. We then discuss the characteristics of mild, moderate, and severe subtypes, specifically: Disengaged Eccentrics, Apprehensive Eccentrics, the Insipid Schizotypal, the Timorous Schizotypal, the Immobile Schizophrenic, and the Disorganized Schizophrenic.  🆘Are you a clinician stuck on a case? To schedule a consultation, please visit the practice website! 👉https://www.questpsych.org/ Chapters00:00 Intro & History of Schizotypal Subtypes02:45 Theodore Millon’s Theory on Schizotypal Personality07:00 The Mild Eccentric Level       08:21 Disengaged Eccentrics      09:39 Apprehensive Eccentrics10:48 The Moderate Schizotypal Level      11:57 Insipid Schizotypal      18:17 Timorous Schizotypal21:26 The Severe Schizophrenic Level       22:56 Immobile Schizophrenic       26:08 Disorganized Schizophrenic29:05 Summary & Conclusion 
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  Ep 42: The Almost Psychotic Personality | Schizotypal in the DSM 02.12.2025 32min

  In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) dive into the origins, diagnostic criteria, and oddities associated with schizotypal personality disorder and what it means to be almost psychotic, but not quite. We unpack idiosyncrasies and “cognitive slippage” of schizotypals that include odd speech patterns, suspiciousness, emotional expression, and social anxiety. This episode also highlights the importance of cultural context in diagnosis and not overpathologizing trends or religious norms. We also explore the overlap with and risk of schizophrenia in schizotypals, along with long-term implications of living in a quasi-psychotic cognitive space. 🆘Are you a clinician stuck on a case? To schedule a consultation, please visit the practice website! 👉https://www.questpsych.org/ Chapters00:00 Intro & History of Schizotypal Personality 01:15 DSM Criteria Schizotypal Personality      02:59 Ideas of Reference     05:35 Odd Beliefs and Magical Thinking              08:18 Exploring Cultural Oddities vs Psychosis     11:05 Unusual Perceptual Experiences     12:44 Odd Thinking & Speech     17:45 Suspiciousness and Paranoia     18:34 Emotional Expression, Behavior, and Appearance     20:13 Lack of Close Relationships and Anxiety23:42 Schizotypal Differential Diagnosis24:46 Schizotypals’ Relationship to Schizophrenia29:33 Summary and Conclusion
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  Ep 41: The Schizophrenic Personality | Understanding Schizotypal & Schizotypy 18.11.2025 32min

  In this episode of The Personality Couch, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) explore the origins and nuances of schizotypal personality disorder, its genetic links to schizophrenia, and the clinical observations that define it. We discuss the evolution of the term 'schizotypal' in the DSM, the implications of schizotypy, and how environmental factors and social learning influence its development. We also uncover observable traits of schizotypal individuals, their social interactions, and self-concept, providing a comprehensive overview of this intriguing personality disorder that is not quite psychotic, but close. 🆘Are you a clinician stuck on a case? To schedule a consultation, please visit the practice website! 👉https://www.questpsych.org/ Chapters00:00 Intro & History of Schizotypal Personality 01:34 Genetic Research on Schizotypal05:17 Clinical Research on Schizotypal08:47 Schizotypal in the DSM09:29 Schizotypy and Borderline Personality Organization12:17 Schizotypy Defined14:32 Schizotaxia Defined17:39 Schizotypic Endophenotypes Explained19:57 When Schizotypy Manifests21:28 Observable Traits of Schizotypal Personality Disorder30:44 Summary and Conclusion