EP. 51 Unpacking Diagnoses: Paranoid Personality Disorder - DSM Criteria & Biblical Explanation

Episode Notes:

"We, in biblical counseling, we do acknowledge that our story shapes our heart. Our story does have a shaping impact on the struggles that we might be dealing with." -Jeremy Lelek, Speak The Truth, EP. 51 Unpacking Diagnoses: Paranoid Personality Disorder (importance of data gathering - context added)

DSM Criteria:

1. Pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others such that their motives are interpreted as malevolent, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by four (or more) of the following: • Suspects, without sufficient basis, that others are exploiting, harming, or deceiving him/her. • Is preoccupied with unjustified doubts about the loyalty or trustworthiness of friends/associates. • Is reluctant to confide in others because of unwarranted fear that the information will be used maliciously against him/her. • Persistently bears grudges, i.e., is unforgiving of insults, injuries, remarks, or events. • Perceives attacks on his/her character or reputation that are not apparent to others and is quick to react angrily or to counterattack. • Has recurrent suspicions, without justification, regarding fidelity of spouse or sexual partner.

Biblical Explanation:

1. The Bible is very clear in stating: “The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe” (Proverbs 29:25). Additionally, Paul attributes evil suspicion and strife to those who do not “consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness…” (I Timothy 6:3- 5). With no fear of the Lord in their hearts, these individuals may engage in (Romans 3:18): • Devising wicked schemes in their hearts (Proverbs 6:18) • Having feet quick to rush into evil (Proverbs 6:14) • Bearing false witness (Proverbs 6:19) • Pouring out filthy lies (Proverbs 6:19) • Stirring up dissension (Proverbs 6:19) • Grumbling against others (James 5:9) • Having mouths full of cursing and bitterness (Romans 3:14) • Fearing man and not God (people will see, hurt, or reject me, Welch, 2000) (Proverbs 25:29; Romans 3:18) • Slanderous accusations (Proverbs 10:18) • Allowing a “root of bitterness” to spring forth which defiles many (Romans 12:15) • Bearing grudges (Leviticus 19:18)

Resources From Episode:

When People Are Big And God Is Small - Ed Welch