Understanding Depressive Personality Disorder

Dr. David Puder and psychologist Dr. Jonathan Shedler explore depressive personality style—how it differs from clinical depression and why it often goes unrecognized. Through a detailed role play, they demonstrate how self-criticism, unconscious guilt, emotional deprivation, and suppressed anger emerge in therapy.

They discuss:

• How depressive personalities form in childhood

• The role of introjection, self-blame, and gentle idealization

• Why therapists may miss key dynamics if therapy feels “too good”

• How to help patients access their real needs and frustrations

This episode is ideal for clinicians and anyone interested in deep psychodynamic work. Shedler draws from the work of Nancy McWilliams and Otto Kernberg while offering his own insights on personality, countertransference, and therapeutic technique.

Link to blog.

Link to YouTube video.

By listening to this episode, you can earn 2 Psychiatry CME Credits.