How do you diagnose personality disorders?

By the book.: The dsm used by psychologists and psychiatrists has certain guidelines that must be followed to make any diagnosis, and the personality disorders are no exception. The patient must meet a certain number of criteria to be so diagnosed. However, the severity of the condition is a bit more subjective and usually requires a number of visits and corroboration by friends, family, and co-workers.

Personality Disorder: Is inflexible pattern of perceiving, interpreting & communicating with others that results in distress or interferes with one's daily functioning.