Which of the following is a hallmark feature of Avoidant Personality Disorder?

• A. Hypersensitivity to negative evaluation
• B. Social inhibition
• C. Lack of anxiety in social settings
• D. Excessive risk-taking

Answer: (B)

Avoidant Personality Disorder centers on a pervasive pattern of social inhibition and avoidance driven by fear of criticism, disapproval, or rejection and a sense of inadequacy. This makes the person hesitate to engage with others or try new activities, often staying isolated even though they may desire close relationships. That outward pattern of restrained, cautious social behavior is the hallmark because it captures the consistent way the disorder presents across many situations. Hypersensitivity to negative evaluation is common and reinforces avoidance, but the defining feature you’re looking for is the actual inhibition and avoidance in social interactions. The other options don’t fit: lacking anxiety in social settings would contradict the pervasive anxious avoidance, and excessive risk-taking is not characteristic of this disorder.