Final answer:
A set of stable, maladaptive and inflexible traits that result in distress or impair functioning are characteristic of a personality disorder. Personality disorders are distinct from mood and anxiety disorders and are diagnosed using criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
Step-by-step explanation:
A set of stable traits that are maladaptive, inflexible, cause distress and/or interfere with daily functioning combine to form a personality disorder. This definition points to a pattern of behavior and internal experience that greatly deviates from the expectations of one's culture, is pervasive and inflexible, has an onset in adolescence or early adulthood, is stable over time, and leads to distress or impairment. Personality disorders are different from mood disorders and anxiety disorders, although they may coexist. The former include conditions like major depression and bipolar disorder, while the latter category encompasses disorders such as OCD, PTSD, and various phobias. It's critical to note that personality disorders represent deeply ingrained ways of behaving that seem normal to the person affected, but are seen as abnormal by society.
The American Psychological Association provides the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to guide the diagnosis and classification of these conditions, including personality disorders. Neuroticism, which includes traits of anxiety and moodiness, has been identified as a potential risk factor for chronic health issues and even mortality. Understanding these disorders within the context of individual cases, as well as the sociocultural environment, can provide better insights into their manifestation and aid in developing more effective treatment strategies.