It's difficult to pinpoint the absolute rarest personality disorder, as prevalence rates can vary depending on studies and diagnostic criteria. However, sadistic personality disorder is often cited as one of the rarest, with estimates suggesting it affects less than 1% of the population.
Sadistic personality disorder is characterized by a persistent pattern of deriving pleasure from inflicting pain or suffering on others. This can manifest in various ways, including:
- Physical cruelty: Deliberately causing physical harm or discomfort to others.
- Emotional cruelty: Intentionally inflicting emotional pain, such as humiliation, belittlement, or manipulation.
- Psychological torture: Using psychological tactics to exert control and inflict distress on others.
It's important to note that not everyone who exhibits sadistic tendencies meets the criteria for sadistic personality disorder. A formal diagnosis requires a comprehensive assessment by a qualified mental health professional.
